THE LOCAL community are being encouraged to support a hamper drive to help those less fortunate this festive season.
Ninderry MP Dan Purdie said his office is a drop-off location for donations of non-perishable items as part of the Urban Angels Christmas Hamper Appeal.
Mr Purdie said the hamper drive is being coordinated by local resident Melanie Ottaway, who has been raising funds for charities in the local area for several years.
“When Melanie asked for help to raise awareness for this Christmas hamper appeal, I was only too happy to help,” Mr Purdie said.
“She is always one of the first people to put their hand up to support our hard-working charities, and at this time of year, the Christmas Hamper appeal is a great way for the wider community to get involved.”
Melanie said that many are doing it tough.
“The gift of giving and being able to bring our community together in a time of crisis is beyond words,” Melanie said.
“I feel like I said the same thing last year, it’s been a rough few years on the Coast and we can all make a difference. You don’t need to go out and spend money, it can be an item you no longer need in the pantry.
“It’s the thought that counts.”
The Christmas Hamper Appeal is an initiative of Urban Angels, a local charity providing nutritious meals for people who need support.
Nearly 200 volunteers and a small number of staff deliver on average around 13,000 meals a month.
In the lead up to Christmas, they will also be putting together roast dinners for as many people as possible.
Non-perishable items being requested include canned soups and other meals, canned salmon and tuna, canned fruit, nut trail mixes and snacks, tea and coffee, long-life milk, and condiments and spreads.
Plum puddings, to go with the roast dinners, are also welcome.
Locals are being asked to drop in their donations as soon as possible, to give the volunteers plenty of time to put them together and distribute before Christmas.
The donations can be dropped off at Dan’s office at 11 Heathfield Road, Coolum Beach by the 19th of December 2024 or directly to Urban Angels, at Unit 4, 27 Service Street, Maroochydore.