Source: Auckland Council
Christmas is just around the corner, and for most Aucklanders it’s time to come together with family and share kai and gifts. But not everyone is able to afford what many of us take for granted during the festive season.
Auckland Council is once again supporting the Auckland City Mission –Te Tāpui Atawhai Auckland’s Angels appeal, to help people in the greatest need, celebrate Christmas.
The council is asking for unwrapped gift donations from the public to help ensure that those in need don’t miss out, so they can also have an enjoyable Christmas.
Collection points for food and gift donations will be in place at all Auckland Council libraries, and pools and recreation centres from 2 December.
Donations close on 19 December, allowing the Auckland City Mission team enough time to sort and pack donations, and get them to whānau in time for Christmas.
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown says he’s proud of the contributions made by Aucklanders in previous years’ appeals and hopes the appeals will be supported again in 2024.
“It can be really tough for some families, with parents wanting to make Christmas Day a fun and festive event for their children, but some simply can’t afford to buy presents.
“Please think of those less well off than yourself this festive season and give what you can – even something little will go a long way to brightening up a child’s Christmas Day.”
Auckland City Missioner Helen Robinson says there is a real need for food and gift donations this Christmas, as many Aucklanders struggle financially.”
“Aucklanders are generous and care for one another, so I encourage you to think about those who are doing it tough and donate. Your donation, no matter how small, will brighten up a fellow-Aucklander’s Christmas, whether they be an adult or a child.”
“A big thank you to Auckland Council for supporting the Mission again this Christmas, by ensuring Aucklanders are able to easily donate across the region.”
How to donate
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You can leave your food or gift donation at a collection point at one of the council’s libraries, pools or leisure centres from 2 December.
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Drop off your gift at the Mission’s HomeGround, 195 Federal Street, Auckland Central – 9 December to 20 December Monday – Friday 12 noon to 6pm.
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Make a donation online via the Auckland’s Angels website.
What is needed?
Food Parcel Items: below is a list of non-perishable items that go into Mission food parcels at Christmas time:
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Christmas treats
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Tinned vegetables, such as tomatoes, corn, peas or beans
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Tinned soup
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Baked beans and tinned spaghetti
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Tinned fruit
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Tinned meat and fish
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Pasta sauce, pasta and rice
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Breakfast cereal and muesli bars
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Spreads, such as jam, peanut butter or honey
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Flour and sugar
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Bay food
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Nappies
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Toilet rolls
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Soap and shampoo
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Feminine hygiene products
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Deodorant
Gift Ideas
Donations of new, unwrapped gifts for children and teenagers are hugely appreciated. Please do not gift clothes as it is difficult to allocate sizes, or toys with batteries. Here are a few popular gift ideas:
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Infants: rattles, night lights, bath toys, teething rings
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Toddlers: bath toys, puzzles, soft toys, Duplo, pull-along toys
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Primary school: puzzles, dress-ups, dolls/action figures, Lego, craft kits, toy cars, animal figurines
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Teenagers: sports ball, scarfs, hats, beach towels, toiletries, gift voucher or Prezzy card
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Family/all ages: board games, books, stationery, reusable drink bottles, toiletries, gift voucher or Prezzy card.
For further information about Auckland’s Angels, visit the Auckland City Mission’s website.
