Dhelkaya Health’s beloved Christmas Tree Project is back for another year, continuing its mission to support local families and individuals during the festive season. The initiative invites staff to donate non-perishable foods, toiletries, and small gifts, which are then packed into Christmas hampers and delivered to those in the Mount Alexander Shire who need them most.
This year, the team behind the project has been once again amazed by the generosity of Dhelkaya Health staff. Although the economic challenges of recent years, including the ongoing cost of living crisis, had led them to expect fewer donations, the overwhelming response has been nothing short of inspiring.
Lisa Jackson, Registered Nurse and long-time Christmas Tree Project volunteer, shared: “We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of donations this year. With so many people facing tough times, we worried that donations might be down. But instead, we’ve seen our staff dig deep and show just how much they care for those in our community. It’s truly heartwarming to see the generosity that shines through even in difficult times.”
Once all donations are collected, the team gets to work organising them into beautifully wrapped hampers filled with everything from holiday treats like pudding and mince pies, to everyday essentials like pasta, toiletries, and soap. The hampers are then delivered to families who are currently struggling with housing insecurity.
Michael McMahon, Senior Housing Worker, who helps coordinate deliveries, expressed the importance of the project: “For many of the families we assist, the holidays are an especially difficult time. With so many people already under strain, it’s heartbreaking to see them decide between buying gifts or providing a meal for their children. This project gives us a chance to step in and offer a little relief, providing both practical support and some much-needed festive cheer.”
The Christmas Tree Project is an important reminder of how communities come together in times of need. This year’s initiative is expected to reach more families than ever before, thanks to the collective kindness of Dhelkaya Health staff and the generosity of local donors.
Lisa extended her heartfelt thanks to donors saying: “We want to thank everyone who contributed to the Christmas Tree Project. The support we’ve received is overwhelming, and it’s humbling to know that we can help make this holiday season a little brighter for so many in need.”
As the project continues to grow, the team looks forward to delivering joy, hope, and a sense of community to even more people in the Mount Alexander Shire in 2025.
