Hampers a treat for festive season

Busselton Salvation Army is looking for donations for its annual Christmas Hamper Appeal.

Food can be handed in at St Mary’s Anglican Church and at Christmas boxes in supermarkets during December, and toys can be left at the Uniting Church on Kent Street.

Captain Tim Watson said the Salvos gave out 150 Christmas hampers every year to families in need in Busselton and Dunsborough.

“Each year we get a fantastic response from the community and we’re hoping to see the same level of generosity again this year, ” he said.

“In some ways it wouldn’t surprise me if there was an increase of need this year.”

Capt. Watson said for most people Christmas was a time of celebration, but for those on low incomes it could often be a low point.

“People struggling financially don’t have the spare cash to spend on socialising so they can end up being isolated, ” he said.

“And there are those who haven’t had this sort of help at Christmas before and it can be hard for them to request a hamper, but we’re happy for them to do so.”

The hampers are collected in mid-December so the sooner donations can be made the better, Capt. Watson said.

“It’s a real community effort and a great way for people to help those less fortunate at Christmas time, ” he said.

Items requested for donations include non-perishable items, especially tinned ham, fruit, vegetables, fruit juice and long life custard.

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