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This year’ s Mayoral Christmas Appeal will be held in partnership with Hawkesbury City Salvos. The Salvos have a long history in the Hawkesbury of providing support services for individuals and families in need, including food, clothing, financial support, counselling, case work and more.

This year, all gifts donated to the Appeal will be distributed by Hawkesbury City Salvos to local needy families who would otherwise go without gifts this Christmas. The Salvos welcome all donations of new gift items but are especially calling out for sports equipment and other outdoor activities, toys, books, puzzles and board games, personal care items, and gift vouchers for all ages.

Hawkesbury City Mayor Les Sheather said the appeal was an opportunity for the community to come together and support those in need.

“ Part of what makes the Hawkesbury great is the willingness of everyone to come together and help out those around us when they are in need,” Mayor Sheather said.

“ Hawkesbury City Salvos do an amazing job all year round providing crucial support to hundreds of in-need locals and families, and it is an honour

to be able to stand beside them this Christmas and do our part.

“ The wonder and joy of Christmas is something that is close to all of our hearts. I encourage everyone who is able, to share some of that joy with inneed children and families this festive season.”

Norwest Salvos Team Leader Matthew Pethybridge thanked the Hawkesbury community for their ongoing generosity.

“ At The Salvos, we have seen many households facing increased financial pressure this year, and a significant rise in the number of people reaching out for first time support,” he said.

“ Across the Hawkesbury, we anticipate we will walk alongside 300 local families by providing food relief, financial support, toys for children and assistance to those affected by domestic violence.

“ We couldn’ t do this without the help of our local communities- through their generous support, we are able to spread hope to where it is needed most at Christmas time.”

Gifts must be new and unwrapped and can be dropped off in the special market drop boxes from now until Friday 12 December 2025 at Council’ s Administration Building, 366 George

Street, Windsor, at Hawkesbury Central Library, 300 George Street, Windsor, and Richmond Branch Library at 29 West Market Street.

Shoppers can also drop off unwrapped gifts at Richmond Marketplace.

Gift ideas may include board games, card games, outdoor games, sport equipment, tool kits or gift vouchers from local shops that offer items such as books, clothes, ice cream, stationery, or sporting goods.