Council supports Secret Santa appeal for vulnerable seniors
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Redland City’s mainland libraries at Capalaba, Cleveland and Victoria Point are drop-off points for Secret Santa donations for vulnerable senior residents this Christmas.
Mayor Karen Williams said Council was pleased to support STAR Community Services’ annual appeal for the third year.
“Christmas is usually a time of joy but for many senior residents it can be one of the toughest times of the year, especially if they live alone or are isolated,” she said.
“The Redlands Coast Age-friendly Action Plan 2021-2026 recognises that connections with others is the cornerstone of security and wellbeing for older residents.
“To this end, Council is committed to promoting community organisations that support isolated and vulnerable older adults, which will in turn enhance community resilience.
“With continued restrictions, lockdowns and cancellation of events due to COVID-19, it is important our seniors know they are not alone, especially during the festive season.
“The STAR Secret Santa appeal is a great initiative which will help make Christmas a little brighter for our senior residents.”
Mayor Karen Williams and STAR Community Services CEO Patsy Wilshire.
STAR Community Services CEO Patsy Wilshire said Christmas can highlight loneliness for vulnerable seniors so it was important to show them that the community cares.
“Last year, thanks to the generosity of the community, we gave out more than 1000 gifts and 3700 food items to seniors who are on their own,” Ms Wilshire said.
“Some of the very grateful recipients last year told us that the Christmas gift they were given through this appeal was the only one they would receive.”
Ms Wilshire said all items donated in Redland City are distributed in the area, on both the mainland and islands.
Donations of gifts suitable for people over 65 and non-perishable food items can be left in STAR donation tubs inside Capalaba, Cleveland and Victoria Point libraries during opening hours from 1 November until 20 December 2021.
Suggested gift ideas include socks, coffee, towels, vouchers, pamper packs, hand cream, fruit cake, tea cups, crockery and household goods.
COVID-safe plans are in place for the collection and distribution of donated items.
The mainland libraries are located at:
Capalaba – in Capalaba Place, 14 Noeleen Street Cleveland – on the corner of Bloomfield and Middle Streets Victoria Point – in Lakeside Shopping Centre, 7-15 Bunker Road.They are all open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 4pm.