As more families struggle with the cost of living, The Ballarat Foundation is calling on the community to support this year’s Christmas Appeal.
A recent Ballarat survey found over 50 per cent of respondents struggled to pay for food and had cancelled medical appointments due to the cost.
The appeal aims to raise over $100,000 across the next two months to support families facing hardship over the festive season, with the funds distributed to the Salvation Army, Uniting Ballarat, St. Vincent De Paul and Anglicare Ballarat.
Foundation CEO Andrew Eales is also calling on people to donate non-perishable food and toys.
“Even a small gift of food or toys at this time of year can have a really significant impact on a family or particularly children,” he said.
“What we see through the appeal is so much great appreciation from those that are in need to those that give.”
Financial donations can be made by going to the Ballarat Foundation website.
Donations of items including non-perishable food, unwrapped toys and gifts can be made at these locations:
- Uniting Ballarat Emergency Relief Program – 105 Dana St, Ballarat Central
- Anglicare Ballarat Emergency Relief Centre – 14 Victoria St, Bakery Hill
- Salvation Army Ballarat Doorways Program – 102 Eureka St, Ballarat East
- Dawson House, 15 Dawson St South, Ballarat Central
