Our Village urges donations for children this Christmas

OUR Village has launched its 2025 Festive Appeal, with more than 800 children waiting for urgently needed items.

As demand soars into the festive season, the organisation is warning there are hundreds of children facing the reality they may miss out this Christmas.

A time normally filled with celebration, is also a time that highlights the gaps for families experiencing hardship and ongoing financial strain fuelled by the rising cost of living.

Our Village chief executive officer Ruth Holdaway said no child should miss out on the magic of Christmas.

“There are hundreds of babies and children who don’t even have the essentials that most of us take for granted.

“We urgently need funds to help us deliver safety, dignity and a little festive magic before Christmas.”

Each year Our Village assists more than 20,000 babies and children by rehoming high-quality essential items across Victoria.

The Christmas Appeal highlights just what a monetary donation can do – a $25 contribution will provide a book pack, while $59 is enough to supply a bundle of clothes to last a child a year and a $1070 donation funds newborn essentials for a year.

Donation packs put together by Our Village can bring moments of joy to people who are struggling.

Currently, Our Village is receiving close to 50 requests for help every day and needs urgent monetary donations to provide that support.

“Every dollar helps turn hardship into hope,” Holdaway said.

“This appeal is about restoring dignity, wrapping children in care, letting them know that they’re seen and valued and reminding parents and carers they’re not alone.”

Case workers have reported that people who receive the care packs experience moments of joy, particularly those navigating additional challenges.

“Usually when our families are struggling with housing, there is some level of family violence, mental health challenges, financial difficulties, or a lack of social support and connections,” Our Village case worker partner Anna said.

One recipient of support from Our Village found herself caring for her 10-year-old niece after the sudden loss of her sister.

Through a donation pack, she received a bundle of quality preloved clothes, shoes and a book, a difference she said brought tears to her niece’s eyes.

For more information and to make a donation, head to ourvillage.org.au