Give the gift of kindness this Christmas

(L-R) Harry, the Sexual Assault and Family Violence Centre interim CEO Carmel Thomas, therapy dog Baila, Meli CEO Grant Boyd, George and Evie. Photo: ANDY ROGERS

THE Geelong Giving Tree Appeal officially launches today (Friday, November 15), raising funds for local children, families and individuals facing hardship during Christmas.

Co-ordinated by Meli, in partnership with the Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre, the appeal is now in its 23rd year.

Children at Meli Kindergartens are also calling for the community to open their hearts this year as they decorate almost 3,000 paper hearts to show what kindness means to them.

The Hearts of Kindness exhibition is on display at the Geelong Regional Library Corporation libraries, Geelong Arts Centre, Geelong Gallery Gift Shop and Colac Otway Performing Arts and Cultural Centre.

Meli chief executive officer Grant Boyd encouraged the local community to consider donating to those in need during the festive season.

Almost 3,000 paper hearts have been created to show what kindness means to the children at Meli Kindergartens.Photo: AND Y ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHY

“As the cost-of-living crisis continues, we know that many in our community find Christmas a challenging time that is often overshadowed by financial strain,” he said.

“By donating to the Appeal, you could help a family afford presents for their children or ensure that they can enjoy a Christmas meal together.

“It really is about the gift of kindness and it’s been wonderful to see children across our kindergartens reflect on the value of kindness through their paper heart creations.”

Last year’s appeal brought Christmas joy to more than 3,600 families and individuals around the region.

The Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre interim chief executive officer Carmel Thomas said the appeal has a profound impact for the community.

The Geelong Giving Tree Appeal raises funds for local children, families and individuals facing hardship during Christmas.

“This gift of kindness at Christmas brings heart-felt joy and happiness, but also respite for families we support.

“Christmas has always been a time for family, sharing and kindness and we are incredibly grateful to the Geelong community for their continued generosity and support, and we encourage you to again share the gift of kindness this Christmas by donating to the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal.”

The Geelong Giving Tree Appeal is running now until December 10.

For more information, to make a donation, or set up a fundraising group, head to geelonggivingtree.com.au