Wests Group Macarthur with local charity Big Yellow Umbrella have launched the 2023 Christmas Giving Tree Appeal in support of children and families really doing it tough in the area. The appeal runs till Thursday 7th December.

Last year, this initiative delivered just under 1,000 presents to some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged families in the region, but this year the need is even greater.

“The cost of living is far beyond the reach of many local Macarthur families and the financial stress is being felt by many,” said Kim Landouw, Chief Operations Manager, Big Yellow Umbrella.

“A small gesture from a complete stranger could be the lift someone needs to let them know they are not alone.”

Ms Landouw is encouraging the community to donate new, and unwrapped Christmas gifts for children of all ages (or adult) underneath the Giving Trees, set up across all Wests Group Macarthur venues, including Wests League Club Leumeah, Country Club Gledswood Hills, Lakeside Golf Club Camden as well as Narellan Town Centre.

“If you can give during this hard time please know your kind donation will go toward putting a smile on the face of a local Macarthur-based family this Christmas,” Ms Landouw said.

In recognition of another tough year, a suggested $20 limit applies to all gifts and there’s the option to make a $20 Cash donation via reception at all Wests Group venues.

“We recognise that many families are really feeling the pinch and we hope that through running this appeal once again, we can offer disadvantaged families and children in Macarthur the chance to experience the excitement and joy of Christmas,” Wests Group Chairman Alan Buxton said.

Big Yellow Umbrella works across the Macarthur region through expressions of interest to ensure the Giving Tree initiative delivers to those connected to community services in the lead-up to Christmas. These services include but are not limited to the Tharawal Brighter Futures program, NSW Police, We Are Community, Baptist Care Narraling Centre, and other clients connected to food relief services in the region.

Following the gift collection period, Wests invites community volunteers to join them for the Giving Tree Gift Wrapping Day at Country Club Gledswood Hills on Monday 11th December when all donated gifts will be labelled, wrapped, and presented to Big Yellow Umbrella for distribution in time for Christmas Day.