Given the current cost-of-living crisis, an increasing number of families will struggle to get gifts under the tree this year.
Ray White Benalla does its bit each year, holding the Little Ray of Giving project, a collaboration with Tomorrow Today and the Salvation Army.
Together, they collect and distribute donated gifts and food hampers to ensure that no Benalla family misses out at Christmas.
The campaign relies on the generosity of the Benalla community and local businesses.
This year, one local businessman, Shannon Parker, who owns and operates SportsPower and Toyworld in Benalla, decided his family wanted to do something to help.
“I’m a Benalla local,” Shannon said.
“On Saturday, December 6 for everything sold in SportsPower and Toyworld we will donate 10 per cent to a Little Ray of Giving.”
With people out and about doing Christmas shopping that weekend, it’s a win-win.
People can do some Christmas shopping, knowing that those purchases will also help put gifts under the tree, and food on the table of families who need help.
“We see it first-hand, especially across these two businesses,” Shannon said.
“We see a lot of people that need that extra help.
“We see the community needs extra help, and we like the local aspect of a Little Ray of Giving.”
Ray White Benalla’s Pete Symes said the annual charity drive was fortunate to be supported by so many people in the Rose City.
“SportsPower and Toyworld have always been fantastic contributors to our local community,” he said.
“This year, ‘Parks’ approached me and said they'd love to officially get on board and promote the fact that they can offer to support a Little Ray of Giving officially.
“The more our local community supports these businesses, in particular, SportsPower and Toyworld, the more they can then obviously support a Little Ray of Giving, which is fantastic.”
Pete said the ongoing support from the community and local business was invaluable.
“This is something that’s really close to my heart,” he said.
“I hate the thought of kids not getting presents at Christmas. I hate the thought of families struggling to pay bills and provide for their children.
“It's a tough time of year, so I implore the community as much as they possibly can to support it.
“It’s a great initiative that’s close to all of our hearts, and I just hope that the community get behind it.
“They always have, and I’m sure they always will.”
You can also donate toys and Christmas food directly to a Little Ray of Giving, by dropping them off at Ray White Benalla, 22-22 Bridge St East.
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