Pool operators seek to make a splash this festive season

THE Heathcote community is being encouraged to open their hearts and cupboards this month to provide joy for those in need over the festive season.

Heathcote Swimming Pool operators, Belgravia Leisure, will be accepting donations of non-perishable food and toys at the pool from 2pm to 7pm when open.

In conjunction with Bendigo Foodshare and Anglicare Bendigo, donations are also being accepted at Belgravia Leisure’s other centres in the City of Greater Bendigo.

“Given that our centres have such a connection with the community it makes sense to partner with these amazing organisations,” said Belgravia Leisure’s Bendigo community engagement coordinator Jayden Cowling.

“We are expecting over 60,000 visitors across our five sites through December.

“It has been a tough year for many so we are calling on anyone who is in a position to donate to help make the Christmas period a little easier for another local family.”

Belgravia Leisure’s Bendigo access and inclusion officer Lisa Melleuish said even small donations would make a difference to the Bendigo Foodshare campaign.

“Simple staple food items are great, be it pasta, rice, grains, cooking oil, canned vegetables, cereal, condiments, and especially coffee, tea and Milo,” she said.

“We are also collecting toys in conjunction with Anglicare Bendigo to hopefully bring a little bit of joy to some local children when Santa visits.”

Donations are being accepted up until 20 December.