NEW Peninsula Community Caring is gearing up to help families in need this Christmas as it launches its annual Christmas Hope Appeal.
Every year, the organisation partners with schools around the peninsula to deliver festive hampers to families experiencing hardship.
The initiative runs from mid-October to 22 November and relies on the generosity of the community and the support of local partners.
Community Caring Project Coordinator Pandora Downs said they have been sharing the joy of Christmas with families for over ten years.
“These hampers do a lot more than just provide festive food,” said Downs.
“They remind families that they are seen, that they are valued, and most importantly, that they are supported by their local community.”
Downs said each year, the demand from the community increases.
“Of the schools that I’ve contacted so far this year, there are nine out of the 24 that have already requested more hampers,” said Downs.
“And they’re citing the reason as the rising cost of living pressures on families, which contributes to much greater support needs.”
Last year, they delivered 768 hampers, and this year, they are aiming for 1000.
Downs said the hampers are a way to spread joy and festivity.
“They’re not designed to provide a core meal as such,” said Downs.
“They are designed just to be treats and just to be festive, and the types of items that families really struggling can’t really afford to purchase.”
The organisation partners with local businesses, community groups, churches, and individuals to help meet their hamper goals.
“We’ve got partners that contribute in a number of ways,” said Downs.
“Some literally will take the hamper bag away, along with the shopping list; others become what we call a collection point, and there are others who prefer just to donate money, and that allows us to do bulk purchases.”
This year, they are partnering with Community Bank Mt Martha, who are providing $2500 via a sponsorship grant and acting as a collection point.
“We’re incredibly grateful to all of our partners for the way that they’ve embraced this project,” said Downs.
“And obviously we’d love to see even more groups, organisations, clubs, social networks, just jump on board and be part of this so that together we can continue to bring hope, dignity and practical support to families right across the peninsula.”
Downs said the hampers are an example of community supporting community and help provide something special to families who need joy during what can be a difficult time.
“Every filled bag is a story of kindness,” said Downs.
Anyone interested in partnering with New Peninsula Community Caring and helping deliver hampers can reach out via email to pandora@newpeninsula.com.au.
First published in the Mornington News – 13 October 2026
