The Christmas spirit has swept across Townsville today with many charities receiving the needed boost allowing them to better facilitate for struggling families this festive season thanks to the Mayor’s Christmas tree appeal.
The appeal aimed at assisting families around Townsville has meant some 1500 hampers as well as almost 500 food vouchers will assist around 7200 residents this year.
A target was set of $100,000 in funds to be raised by the support of businesses making pledges. Due to difficult circumstances experienced in the North this year the funds raised equated to $70,000.
Mayor Les Tyrell thanked the people and businesses in Townsville that gave generously to the appeal.
“It has been a difficult year for many with Cyclone Yasi earlier in the year and many other uncertainties,” Cr Tyrell said
“But that hasn’t stopped people from digging deep to help out others who are facing a pretty bleak Christmas.
“The donations of cash, food and toys from schools, families, individual residents and businesses will make a huge difference to local families and I am humbled by the spirit and generosity of the Townsville community.”
Among the 28 organisations receiving the proceeds of the appeal was the newly named Northreach Baptist Church that runs a community support program from their Townsville campus.
Micahel Stainbrook from Northreach Baptist Church with Les Tyrell
More to come including audio and a video from today’s formalities.
