Appeal to help families in need

GOOD CAUSE: Northern Advocate reception staff members Gaylene Kooge (left) and Marilyn McRae with Barnardos Whangarei service manager Shirley Drake and social worker Fran Hauraki at the launch of the Christmas Appeal. PHOTO/JOHN STONE

The generosity of Northlanders is again being called upon for the Northern Advocate's annual Christmas Appeal.

For the second year in a row, the appeal for toys and non-perishable goods will be for Barnardos Whangarei, which provides care, education and support services for children and their families across the whole of Northland.

Greg Alexander, general manager for NZME in Northland, which publishes the Northern Advocate, said that while for most people the festive season was a time of excitement, sharing and giving, for others it could be a challenging time.

"As a significant employer and business in Northland, we recognise the important role we can play in amplifying the message for many worthy causes," said Mr Alexander.

"We support dozens of organisations and charities each year, and the Northern Advocate/Barnardos Christmas appeal is a major one for us.

"So, like the last few years, we're getting behind this appeal and we're seeking your support. Every Christmas you, our readers, continue to show your generosity and we're asking you to please help again and bring joy to Northland families who are less fortunate."

Barnardos Whangarei service manager Shirley Drake said the appeal was all about helping to provide a good Christmas for some of our most vulnerable children and their families.

"We work with families throughout Northland and the majority of them are not able to make those extra purchases at this time of the year," said Ms Drake.

"They don't have enough money as they have many other priorities that have to be taken care of first, so we want to help them. We are so appreciative of the generosity of Northlanders at this time of the year."

Customers at Whitcoulls Whangarei have already come to the party by donating a Santa sack full of white Christmas bears.

Whitcoulls customers can buy one of these teddy bears, which will be given to the Appeal to distribute to Barnardos at Christmas time.

The Barnardos Whangarei office provides a range of services that are developed specifically for Northland children and their families.

Its social workers and family-support facilitators are trained and experienced in working with children and families to ensure they have a bright future.

The services address issues that affect the well-being of children and their development, such as domestic violence and parental support.

Anybody wanting to donate to the Northern Advocate/Barnardos Christmas Appeal can drop any toy or food item off at our office at 88 Robert St, Whangarei.