After a tough year for Tāmaki Makaurau, beginning with the devastating floods and cyclone, Aucklanders are looking forward to a happy and festive Christmas, but not everyone can afford to provide Christmas cheer for themselves and their whānau.
That’s why Auckland Council is throwing its support behind the Auckland City Mission – Te Tāpui Atawhai Auckland Angels appeal, to help ensure Aucklanders in greatest need can celebrate Christmas too.
With the ongoing high cost of living, many Aucklanders are doing it tough financially. Without help, those in greatest need aren’t able to have a special Christmas or provide presents for their tamariki to enjoy.
Auckland Council is asking for unwrapped gift donations from the public to help ensure that those in need don’t miss out and can have a happy Christmas.
Collection points for food and gift donations are in place at all Auckland Council libraries, pools and recreation centres.
Donations close on 5 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 Auckland Council is getting behind the appeal once again.
“Christmas is a time to be giving, to give thanks, and to think of others. Some Aucklanders are doing it tough. I urge Aucklanders who can afford to, to dip into their pockets and give to Auckland City Mission’s Auckland Angels appeal.
“Make this your generous action this Christmas. It doesn’t have to be big; give what you can, and it will make a huge difference to Christmas for many, including children, who could otherwise miss out.
Auckland City Missioner Helen Robinson said many Aucklanders continue to struggle to make ends meet and there’s a real need for the community to gather around and support those people, particularly at Christmas.
“I’d like to thank Auckland Council for once again supporting us at Christmas, by ensuring that Aucklanders are able to easily donate wherever they are in the region.
“I know this year has been another tough year for many, so I encourage Aucklanders to give what they can. No matter how small your donation, it will help make a big difference to someone’s Christmas whether they be an adult or a child.”
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 recreation centres.
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Order a gift online and have it delivered directly to the Auckland City Mission – 140 Hobson Street (HomeGround), Auckland 1010. Please mark all gifts for the attention of Auckland's Angels.
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Drop off your gift at the Mission’s HomeGround, 140 Hobson Street, Auckland Central – 20 November to 22 December Monday – Friday 9am – 3pm.
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 Angels, visit the Auckland City Mission’s website.
