THE generosity of the Swan Hill community will again shine in the lead-up to Christmas, with Ray White’s A Little Ray of Giving initiative launched on Wednesday.
The real estate agent has partnered with human services provider Mallee Family Care (MFC) to deliver cheer during the festive period to those in need of it most.
People are encouraged to purchase gift and place it unwrapped beneath the Christmas tree at Ray White anytime in November.
The gifts will then be handed to MFC who will distribute to those most in need.
Ray White Swan Hill selling principal Fiona Hawley said the initiative started in 2016 and had grown year-on-year.
“The tougher the times, the more generous people seem to be,” she said.
“During COVID, people became more and more generous and now this year we are dealing with floods and a tightening economy, so people are thinking of those in need.”
Ms Hawley said the main focus of the initiative will be during November.
“MFC will need time to gather the presents and distribute them to relevant people,” she said.
The presents should be aimed at children aged zero to 18.
“We encourage people to think about teenagers as it’s always easy to buy something for 10 years and under,” Ms Hawley said.
“The teens are often forgotten about.”
The volume of quality presents last year blew Ms Hawley away, but she urged people to spend within their means.
“All gifts are accepted gratefully, regardless of size of value,” she said.
“Last year we had someone purchase six kids’ watches, then we had a local business contribute from their social club … more and more businesses are getting behind it.
“We are also finding parents are using it as a teaching tool with their own children about sharing and giving to others.”
Donations should not be pre-loved and remained in its packaging as purchased and unwrapped.
