By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
CHRISTMAS is not always a pleasant time for those in Casey who may have no family to turn to nor money to buy gifts.
But it’s in this bleak reality that Windermere and the local community rallies to help the underprivileged living throughout the south-eastern municipality.
Case managers from Windermere Narre Warren came together last Thursday to collect hundreds upon hundreds of gifts and hampers which were donated by the community to be distributed to the family service provider’s clients just in time for Christmas.
Local businesses, schools, community groups and individuals dug deep over the past two months, donating more than 800 gifts and 150 hampers to Windermere’s Merry Mission appeal.
Windermere CEO Lynette Buoy commended the selflessness shown in spades by the Casey community.
“Many local families are feeling the strain of everyday living and will find it tough to celebrate the festive season with the presents and hearty meals that many of us take for granted,” she said.
“Christmas should be a time for giving and our community are known for their compassion and support of those less fortunate.
“This has once again been proven by the overwhelming generosity shown during this year’s campaign.”
Dr Buoy reiterated the donated gifts and hampers went a long way to bringing joy to many local children and families this Christmas.
Groups that donated to the Merry Mission appeal included Beaconhills College, Lyndhurst Primary School, The Inner Wheel Club of Berwick, Tirhatuan Park Golf Club, Target Mornington, Berwick Woodworkers Club, Dandenong Valley Historic Car Club, Commonwealth Bank, BJT Business Advisors and Berwick Motor Group, among many others.
