Challenge Community Services is urging the public and local businesses to help brighten the Christmas of children in foster care by participating in the 2024 Susan Roskell Toy and Gift Drive.
The Susan Roskell Toy and Gift Drive started in 2016 and aims to bring joy to children in the community through donated toys and gifts to charity partners and community organisations. Suggested gifts include sporting equipment, educational toys, beauty packs for teens, and gift cards for older children. Challenge has been selected as a community partner in the Toy Drive and is calling for donations of toys, gifts, or financial contributions to ensure that every foster child supported by Challenge receives a special gift this holiday season.
“This Christmas, we have a wonderful opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children in foster care,” said Julie May, Executive Director of Foster Care at Challenge Community Services.
“We’re asking the public and local businesses to get behind this campaign and give the gift of care by donating a toy or contributing financially.”
“Together, we can help ensure children and young people in foster care experience the joy and excitement of Christmas.”
Challenge Community Services supports over 450 children and young people in foster care across New South Wales. Through the Susan Roskell Toy and Gift Drive, every one of these children has the potential to receive a gift this Christmas—this will only be possible if the public steps in to support the cause.
How You Can Support the toy drive:
- Gift Donations: Drop off new, unused, unwrapped toys or gift cards at any Challenge Foster Care office across NSW, including the Armidale office in Beardy Street or the Tamworth office on Goonoo Goonoo Road.
- Financial Contributions: Businesses and individuals can make financial donations to help Challenge purchase gifts. Donations can be made at any Challenge Foster Care office or through their website here. All donations are tax deductable.
- Kmart Click and Collect: Order toys or gifts online via Kmart’s Click and Collect service, and Challenge will arrange the pickup and delivery to ensure the gifts reach the children in time.
“Christmas gifts are more than just toys or things, they are symbol of support and provide a sense of belonging to the community,” Ms May said.
“The children we support have often faced incredible challenges, and a small act of kindness can make a world of difference to them. We’re grateful for every contribution, and with the community’s help, we can ensure that all our children receive the care and joy they deserve this Christmas.”
All donations must be received by mid-November for sorting and distribution in time for Christmas.
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