Cessnock Hospitality Group has partnered with Samaritans for its 2023 Christmas Gift Appeal.
About 70 gifts were donated by members and staff across CHG venues in 2022, and the group is proud to be supporting Samaritans again as it sets out to make Christmas a little brighter for local families in need.
Samaritans intensive support case worker Peter Woolven said the organisation is anticipating increased demand for Christmas assistance this year.
“Each Christmas, through the generosity of our local business and community, Samaritans is able to support families in our community who are doing it tough,” Mr Woolven said.
“This year we will rely even further on the generosity of the local community to provide gifts and food items.
“A wide range of toys and gifts are required, such as toys, sports equipment, beach towels, bags and books for children aged 0-12.
“Your generosity will help us bring smiles to many faces on Christmas Day.”
Cessnock Hospitality Group administration supervisor Leanne Graves said the support for last year’s toy drive was “just wonderful” and she encouraged members, staff and the community to get behind the initiative again in 2023.
The Christmas Gift Appeal is running at Cessnock Leagues Club, Vincent Street Kitchen and Bar and Paxton Bowling Club. To participate, collect a gift tag from the Christmas tree at these venues and fill in the details on the back, attach it to the gift you are donating and leave it under the tree.
Samaritans kindly asks that donated items not require batteries for use, and that all toys are new, in the box and unwrapped. Gift cards to the value of $20 are also accepted.
Non-perishable food items can also be donated at CHG venues.
The collection will conclude on Thursday, December 7 and will be distributed by Samaritans the following week.
Caption: Cessnock Hospitality Group events manager Jacquie Condran and administration supervisor Leanne Graves with the Christmas display at Cessnock Leagues Club.