The Gift of Giving

Christmas Day plays out differently for everyone – some spend it with family and friends for a day of feasting, while others wonder where they'll find their next meal. If you can, give back to those who need it this Christmas and help share the festive spirit.

Imagine going to sleep every night on an empty stomach. For 42,132 Territorians – including around 20,000 children – it’s reality. That’s where hunger relief organisations such as Foodbank NT, the UnitingCare Christmas Appeal and the Darwin Basket Brigade come in.

In 2015, Foodbank NT put 410,000 meals into the bellies of Territorians experiencing hunger, and this year they’re up to more than 460,000. It works by redistributing surplus food from food growers, manufacturers and processors to welfare organisations – food that, for various commercial reasons, can’t be sold – and this is estimated to be around 30 per cent of all produce.

The good news is anyone can help! A donation of $40 can help a struggling family with a food hamper. And for your Secret Santa, why not gift a cash donation on behalf of a friend of family member? Every donation of $1 enables Foodbank to distribute $8 worth of food and groceries to those who need it. Organisations are also looking for volunteers to pack food hampers and distribute goods in time for everyone to experience the joy and excitement of Christmas.