Carols cash an early Appeal boost

BALLARAT Carols by Candlelight has made a significant early donation to the 3BA Christmas Appeal ahead of their event on Sunday, 19 December.

This week the Carols committee has contributed $4000, which president Matt Hustwaite said was gradually raised since the last face-to-face event was held at City Oval two years ago.

“Times have been incredibly tough for families everywhere, especially in Ballarat thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.

“In 2019 we raised $10,000 for the Appeal. Kickstarting our contribution with $4,000 will hopefully inspire those who come along on Sunday, December 19 to dig deep and help the Appeal out even more.”

Established more than 40 years ago, the 3BA Christmas Appeal continues to support over 5000 local families each year by helping to put food on the table and presents under the tree, through Uniting Vic. Tas, the Salvation Army, Anglicare Ballarat, and the St Vincent de Paul Society.

The welfare agencies have reported a large increase in demand for assistance since the pandemic began.

Mr Hustwaite is encouraging those attending Ballarat Carols by Candlelight to donate to the Appeal online when registering for their free ticket. They can also donate on the night at one of the donation points at the entry.

“Cash donations and the flexibility they provide are the number one priority.

“We have already had more than 6000 people register for Carols, and I encourage people to get on the website and register now to avoid missing out,” he said.

A 3BA Christmas Appeal Giving Tree is based at Harcourts Ballarat where non-perishable food, presents and flexible gift vouchers for groceries and gifts can be dropped off.

Visit ballaratcarolsbycandlelight.org.au for tickets and more information.