The Wagga Wagga City Library has launched its annual Christmas Food Appeal this week supporting local families and community members experiencing financial difficulties over the holiday season.
The library is encouraging residents to give the gift that gives back to our community by donating non-perishable food, toiletries, and baby needs for those most in need.
The program launched on Monday 18 November and will run until Friday 10 January.
This year the library is partnering with Argyle Housing and a variety of local organisations and businesses, with all donated items to be distributed to those in need via the Kooringal, Tolland and Ashmont Community Hubs.
Council's Manager Library Services Christine Bolton says the library team knows from experience that the community will give generously.
"This program is a great success every year because of the generosity of Wagga Wagga residents and is the perfect example of how public libraries promote equality within communities and keep them connected through a variety of programs and services.
"Last year, more than 40 boxes of non-perishable items were donated. We're incredibly lucky to have such a big-hearted community."
Ms Bolton said donated items will assist families over the Christmas and New Year period who are experiencing difficulties covering the costs associated with the festive season.
"Household staples are particularly needed, including canned food, rice and pasta, flour, breakfast cereals and spreads, baby needs, toiletries, feminine products and long-life milk.
"It's important donations are well within their use-by dates.
"They can be dropped in at the library or to a friendly Library Officer at any of the Agile Library sites in suburban and rural villages across the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area."