Shellharbour City residents are encouraged to help families in need this festive season by donating to the Mayoress' Giving Tree.
For more than 20 years, the Shellharbour community has come together to lend a hand to help hundreds of disadvantaged families celebrate Christmas
Vikki Muller, partner of Shellharbour Mayor Chris Homer, said many families have been experiencing added financial pressures this year due to the rise in the cost of living.
"It's been another difficult year for an increasing number of people in our city. People are struggling to pay rent, buy groceries and fill up their car up with petrol," Ms Muller said.
"In many cases, families who have never had to seek assistance are finding themselves in a precarious financial position.
"For some, it just won't be possible to buy gifts and food this festive season. It is heartbreaking."
Mayor Homer said he was immensely proud of the Shellharbour community's ongoing willingness to support others in difficult circumstances.
"Your donations of gifts and vouchers will help create special Christmas memories for families in need," Mayor Homer said.
"Of course, not everyone is in a position to donate gifts. If you are unable to support the appeal this year, a smile or a small act of kindness can go a long way to brightening someone's day," he said.
To donate, simply leave unwrapped gifts in the box next to the Christmas tree in the Shellharbour Civic Centre foyer.
The St Vincent de Paul Society will distribute the gifts to families in need, as it has done for many years.
If you would prefer to donate a Target or Kmart gift voucher, please send it to Shellharbour City Council Mayoress' Giving Tree, care of Joanne Frasca, Locked Bag 155 Shellharbour City Centre NSW 2529.
Residents are encouraged to donate gifts by 8 December so that volunteers have time to sort, wrap and distribute to families by Christmas.
