As we spend precious quality time with loved ones and exchange heartfelt gifts during the festive season, it’s a reminder that there are so many people that are less fortunate and sadly don’t share the same privileges.
To make a difference and help those in need this Christmas, we’re proud to announce that Oak Tree are partnering with St Vincent de Paul in Armidale to support the local community.
Each year, Vinnies provide Christmas Hampers to local people in need, and this year, Oak Tree is helping to collect as many items as we possibly can.
“Armidale is such a tight knit community, so Oak Tree are honoured to join forces with Vinnies to brighten the holiday season and make a meaningful impact in the lives of our less fortunate community members”, says Carolyn Beresford, long time Armidale local and Business Manager of the Oak Tree villages in New England.
“This year, the need is even greater, as the cost of living pressures are impacting more households who will be having a meagre Christmas without our help”, says Phil Donnan, Regional Director – North West of St Vincent de Paul.
“Rural households are particularly in need, as drought conditions are increasing quickly and families are having to divert resources to their stock and properties”, says Phil.
To help Vinnies with their incredible mission, Oak Tree are putting together packs of essentials for the homeless community in Armidale and are setting up Giving Trees as drop off points, where people can donate anytime. These will be located at our two retirement villages in Armidale, and in the Central Shopping Centre – just keep an eye out for a large Oak Tree!
“Both myself and the Oak Tree Group are very passionate about giving back to the local community, through the fulfilling, carefree lifestyle that we provide our residents in our villages, but also through initiatives like this”, says Carolyn.
“We will also be setting up in the Central Shopping Centre on Friday the 8th of December from 10am – 4pm. Please visit us to say hi or drop off any donations. We’d love to see you!”
Vinnies are looking for the following items to be donated:
- Toiletries for both men and women
- Coffee and meal vouchers or gift cards
- Bon bons and Christmas decorations
- Christmas food – non-perishables (Christmas cake, pudding, shortbread, nuts, lollies, biscuits, chocolates, poppers, and soft drinks)
“The Oak Tree team will be approaching organisations to contribute to the Giving Trees this year, and any support would be greatly appreciated, whether that is a product, service, or gift cards and vouchers”, says Phil.
“Everything contributed will provide a family with something special this Christmas that otherwise would be a modest celebration for them. Vinnies appreciate any contribution, big or small, that you can make to the Oak Tree Group Giving Trees.”
In the spirit of compassion and community, Oak Tree are proud to collaborate with St Vincent de Paul this festive season to extend a helping hand to Armidale locals who desperately need our support.
Please join us in giving back to our community and making this holiday season one of warmth, kindness, and joy for everyone. Your support will be deeply appreciated.
For more information on how you can help Vinnies with their mission, visit https://www.vinnies.org.au/nsw or call 13 18 12.
