The annual Deniliquin Local Health Advisory Committee giving tree initiative was launched late last week when a beautifully decorated tree appeared in the Deniliquin Hospital foyer.
For the third year in a row, the live tree was donated by LHAC member Chantelle Shevels.
She and her sons Dominic and Harvey helped decorate the tree, alongside LHAC chair Lourene Liebenberg.
The LHAC Tree of Giving initiative is intended to help disadvantaged local families have a better Christmas.
Unwrapped toys and gifts can be left under the tree between now and the closing date of December 22.
“The donations will be distributed through other existing local giving tree programs to those who need them,” Mrs Liebenberg said.
“LHAC is very thankful to Chantelle for donating the tree.
“It not only creates a lovely space for people to drop their donations, it adds to the Christmas spirit at the hospital - for those people who may be in hospital or visiting family in the hospital for Christmas.”
Mrs Shevels said this year’s tree donation helps more than one local organisation.
“I purchased the tree through the Deniliquin North School fundraiser,” she said.
“I have bought the trees locally each year for the last three years, just so I can support other locals at the same time.”
Other giving tree programs are being coordinated by Homes Out West (toys and food accepted), St Vincent de Paul (toys, food and cash donations accepted), Coles Deniliquin (food and toys), St George Bank (food and Christmas hamper items accepted).
The Deniliquin Salvation Army is also collecting toys for the Marc Kingston Memorial Toy Run and other donations for hampers.
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