Alyssa Fritzlaff
THE Latrobe Valley Express’ Giving Tree has had a successful 2021.
Community members have donated a variety of children’s toys throughout the past month.
“The generosity of our local community grows and grows each year,” The Express’ feature manager Lesley Hogan said.
“The spirit of Christmas is certainly amongst us, and for the so many that donated, we say ‘thank you’.”
Ms Hogan said The Express was proud of the Giving Tree program and the wonderful
support it has received from the Latrobe Valley community.
“It’s been a tough year for many, as was last year, and the impact it has unfortunately
placed on many families who have suffered financially and emotionally is significant,” she said.
“But, we hope that the joy of receiving the gifts from under the giving tree will place a smile on the faces of the children who receive them”.
In a wonderful display of the Valley’s generosity, close to 1000 presents were donated this year.
All donations went to Anglicare Victoria in Gippsland, who are packing them into hampers for their clients.
Anglicare Victoria works with young people, children and families to protect them from
harm and empower then to overcome challenges. They provide a number of services,
including foster care, family violence support and drug and alcohol services.
Anglicare Victoria’s Gippsland administration co-ordinator Susan Hughes said the organisation was immensely grateful for all the donations received.
“Anglicare Gippsland would like to express our appreciation for everyone who donated and participated this year,” she said.
“It was mind-blowing to walk in and see how generous our local community has been in the lead up to Christmas… the gifts will make a big difference and will put a smile on the faces of many children this Christmas morning.
“Given the year we’ve all had, it’s just an amazing result. There are still so many people out there who are thinking of others, and want to make sure everyone has a good Christmas season.”
Ms Hughes collected the donations in person, and thanked The Express team for choosing Anglicare Victoria in Gippsland as this year’s recipients.
“Thank you so much to The Latrobe Valley Express for making us the recipient of the gifts, it’s really wonderful and we’re exceptionally grateful,” she said.
