An initiative to help families at Christmas is back this year to raise donations and gifts for those in our community who are facing hardship.

Organised through Ray White Wānaka, the ‘Little Ray of Giving’ helps individuals and families who may need some extra support and care during what can be a stressful and busy time of year.

“The need is huge,” Community Networks/LINK manager Kate Murray said.

“With the cost of living, people are struggling to make ends meet. They are often running close to the wind and that is where it is fortunate that we have this support.” 

Kate said parents are referred to Community Networks/LINK from across the healthcare spectrum (medical centres, public health nurse, Plunket, social workers) and encouraged to choose from the gifts donated for their children.

“Often people are hesitant to take gifts, we have to really encourage them,” Kate said. 

“People get emotional and they are absolutely overwhelmed.” 

Kate said that gifts can be donated at Ray White’s office in Helwick Street and any gifts for children are “fantastic”, while vouchers from cinemas or bookshops are good for teenagers.

“We really appreciate Ray White gathering these gifts for families that may otherwise struggle to buy gifts for their children,” she said.

Ray White Wānaka has erected a christmas tree at their office and the community is asked to drop gifts at the tree.

“The holiday period can be a pretty emotionally charged time, so it’s important to us to make an effort to help out people who might be struggling after facing serious challenges and setbacks,” Ray White Wānaka owner Kelly Good said.

Gifts can be donated for the Little Ray of Giving campaign from now until Friday December 16 at Ray White Wānaka, 1 Helwick Street. All gifts will be securely stored and then collected by Community Networks/LINK for distribution. 

Community Networks/LINK request that gifts not be wrapped so parents can see the gift and choose something appropriate for their child.

Cash donations can be made at the Community Networks/LINK Givealittle page.

PHOTO: Ray White Wānaka