Ray White gives plenty

THE Ray White Ballarat’s Little Ray of Giving toy drive has successfully helped gather gifts to be delivered to children across the region as part of the Salvation Army’s efforts.

Director Phillip Lee said over 200 toys were donated and collected in time to be delivered by Christmas morning.

“When the lieutenant of the Salvation Army, Graham Kennedy collected the toys on he said they had requests from 700 families the week prior to Christmas, and they expected another 400 the week of Christmas,” he said.

“We’re really pleased that our 233 toys we’ve collected will help put a smile on a child’s face this Christmas, who otherwise might’ve gone without.”

Mr Lee said this year’s toy drive, the 10th of the initiative which runs across Ray White offices in Australia and New Zealand, was “certainly better than last year.”

“We generally collect between the late 100s up to just over 300. We’re really happy with the result and we’ve had great support from many members of the community, our staff, Goodstart Early Learning Wendouree and the Rotary Club of Wendouree Breakfast, whose members have helped out as well.” he said.

“People have been really pleased to help and understand it’s difficult for some families at Christmas, I think it’s really great that people will help out.”

Thousands of gifts are delivered to families across Australia and New Zealand thanks to the initiative, and Mr Lee said it perfectly aligns with Ray White’s value of giving back to the region that supports them.

“It’s about being involved with the community and working with the community,” he said. “It’s not all about take, it’s an opportunity for us to give.”

“It gives our office and our staff the opportunity to assist others that aren’t as fortunate as us and I think that’s really important.

“There is another side to the world, not everyone’s got a job and not everyone’s in the position to buy Christmas presents, it’s part of our team being able to give back to the community.”