Big response to Christmas appeal

THE Ballarat Foundation has distributed donations worth a total of $100,000 to partner charities from its 2025 Christmas Appeal.

The foundation described this year’s support as “extraordinary”, again demonstrating the generosity and compassion that define the region.

“It is an absolute privilege to work in a community as generous and compassionate as Ballarat,” foundation CEO Andrew Eales said.

“The response to this year’s Christmas Appeal, from donors, businesses, volunteers and community groups, has been inspiring.

“Together, we have shown what’s possible when a community comes together to support its most vulnerable.”

Emergency relief agencies The Salvation Army, Uniting Ballarat, St Vincent de Paul Ballarat, and Anglicare Ballarat are the annual beneficiary organisations.

The 2025 appeal also enjoyed a strong response from local businesses, with at least nine volunteering to act as collection points. Collection points were set up at Anglicare Ballarat, 3BA, Toyworld in Wendouree, Jellis Craig Ballarat, Haymes Paint Shop in Creswick Road, Jenny’s ELC Delacombe, Hideaway Coffee Bar in Brown Hill, Restore Hand Therapy, and Step Up Support Services.

In addition to donations of toys and non-perishables, the Blokes Biggest Lunch Ballarat raised money to pay for 250 men’s care bags.

The bags are being distributed to men experiencing vulnerability – an often overlooked group at this time of year – ensuring that they too feel seen, supported and valued.

Other contributions included cubby houses built by Smith and Sons builders and the Ballarat East Community Men’s Shed, which were raffled and all money raised donated to the appeal.

Since its inception in 1980, the appeal has provided millions of dollars in support to people across the Ballarat region.

Money raised and donated items are distributed directly to local charities that deliver frontline assistance to help them provide emergency relief such as food, toys, clothing, and essential items to ensure no one is left behind at Christmas.

The foundation held a ‘thank you’ event at the Ballarat Fire Station in Sturt Street in the week before Christmas to formally recognise donors and supporters.