Making Christmas brighter

AS CHRISTMAS rapidly approaches, time is running out to donate to the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal.

With the appeal running until December 15, there’s still time to make a difference in the lives of local families doing it tough this holiday season.

Christmas is a time for presents, shared meals, and spending time with loved ones, but for many in the community, these simple joys aren’t possible without a little extra support.

The Geelong Giving Tree Appeal is here to help.

Coordinated by Meli, in partnership with the Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre, all funds raised through the appeal are converted into gift cards.

These are then distributed to families supported by Meli, the Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre, Wathaurong, Cultura and Orange Door.

Cameron Barker, Ashley Warton and Taylah Bee from Cleanaway are again supporting the Appeal as a Gold Partner.

There are several ways to help spread kindness this year and make an impact:

Double Your Impact Day – Tuesday, December 10: On this special day, all public donations will be doubled, thanks to generous Giving Day partners. It’s the perfect time to give and make each donation go further. Donate online at geelonggivingtree.com.au

The Paddock Bakery – Tuesday, December 10: Join the appeal for a special fundraising event at The Paddock Bakery in Federal Mills. Enjoy live music with $1 from every coffee sold going directly to the Appeal. Plus, don’t miss out on their delicious ‘heart-shaped palmier’ pastries, with proceeds supporting the cause.

Kindness Chocolates – Until December 10: Pick up a 100g “Giving Tree Kindness Chocolate” at participating locations: Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery in Bellbrae, Fresh Food Merchant in Geelong, and Peachs in Torquay.

Make a Giant Chocolate Lollipop – tomorrow (Saturday, December 7): Head to Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery in Bellabrae for a fun, family friendly event. Create your own giant chocolate lollipop topped with lollies, and enjoy free face painting from 10.30 am to 1.30 pm. The cost is $10 per person, with 50 per cent of proceeds donated to the Appeal. No booking required.

Siblings Zeph, Esme, Lola, and Sullivan are getting behind this year’s Geelong Giving Tree Appeal and encouraging the community to donate or buy a “Kindness Chocolate.” Photo: SUPPLIED

Hearts of Kindness Exhibition – on now: Experience the “Hearts of Kindness” exhibition, featuring nearly 3,000 hand-decorated paper hearts created by children from Meli kindergartens across the Barwon and Colac regions. The exhibit is on display at Geelong Regional Library, Geelong Arts Centre, Geelong Gallery and select locations in Colac. Scan the QR codes displayed to make a donation.

Visit the City Hall Festive Light Projections – until January 7: Soak up the festive spirit by visiting City Hall on Gheringhap Street which is lighting up with projections celebrating and encouraging kindness, inspired by artwork created by children from across Meli’s kindergarten network. Visit City Hall from dusk until midnight each day to marvel at the display.

The Geelong Giving Tree Appeal is proudly supported by:

• Platinum Partner: Anthony Costa Foundation

• Gold Partners: City of Greater Geelong, Cleanaway, Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery, West Carr and Harvey.

• Silver Partners: APCO Foundation, GMHBA, The Paddock Bakery, Denis Walter Carols by the Bay.

• Media Partners: Bay 93.9, Times News Group

To help make Christmas brighter for everyone in the community, donate by heading to geelonggivingtree.com.au