Demand for support over the upcoming festive season is expected to increase as preparations are made for the annual Community Christmas Appeal in Wattle Range.

“Council is very pleased to be partnering with the Millicent Combined Churches to assist with the 2022 Community Christmas Appeal,” Wattle Range Mayor, Des Noll said as he began to sort the donations that have already been collected.

“It is important that we continue to think of others at a time that they need us most”, Mayor Noll appealed.

“We are urgently calling for volunteers and cash donations from across the entire Wattle Range region,” he added.

The hampers, which contain food, books, toys, vouchers and other essential items, will be distributed to those in need across Wattle Range just before Christmas.

“Last year we distributed almost 160 hampers. With so many still affected by the impacts of the pandemic, as well as increased cost of living pressures, we are expecting the need to be even greater this year.”

The Community Christmas Appeal would not be possible without the ongoing support of the wider community, and organisations such as the Millicent, Beachport and Kalangadoo Lions Clubs, the Wattle Range Lions Club, Foodbank, Millicent Community Learning Centre, Millicent Mens Shed, AC Care, St Vinnies Mount Gambier, Kimberly Clark, and the St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School.

Anyone interested in volunteering some time to assist with the Appeal can register by emailing events@wattlerange.sa.gov.au.

In addition, cash donations can be made at the any of Council’s Offices and food donations in the yellow boxes which will be placed at local supermarkets.

Any enquiries can be directed to Council on 8733 0900 or Shaun Mulick, Millicent Community Church on 0427 963 490.

“Help us help those in need this Christmas,” Mayor Noll concluded.