UnitingCare Queensland and Target Grand Central are officially launching its annual Christmas Appeal to raise funds to improve the lives of Queenslanders who are struggling financially this Christmas.

For the 28th consecutive year, UnitingCare Australia and Target are partnering together for the Christmas Appeal to brighten Christmas for thousands of Australians who, for a variety of reasons, are unable to celebrate Christmas with gifts.

Group Executive Child and Family Services Brent McCracken said that last year UnitingCare Queensland raised $160,000, helping more than 12,000 individuals experiencing hardship. “We’re incredibly grateful of all of the donations we receive through the appeal, with every gift and contribution making a huge difference to a family doing it tough this Christmas,” he said. “This year, because of growing need in our communities, we are aiming to support even more families across the State.”

UnitingCare Acting Regional Manager John Kelly said the appeal was a great opportunity for locals to support the Toowoomba community and make a real difference to their Christmas. “We really do rely on the generosity of people in our community to dig deep, show compassion and support our appeal this Christmas,” said John.

People can contribute to the appeal by buying a bauble for $2, a $3 white Christmas gift box, or by donating a gift at Target Grand Central. UnitingCare will collect the donations and distribute them to families in need. Every gift and contribution makes a huge difference.

The Target UnitingCare Christmas Appeal runs until 24 December 2018.

Readers also enjoyed this story about another Christmas Appeal at Grand Central.