For the last two years, Lieutenants Troy and Donna Munro, as corps officers of Forbes Salvation Army, have spent the lead-up to Christmas packing and distributing toy and food hampers to families and individuals in need.
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The Salvation Army is aiming to spread hope through the Forbes and Parkes communities this Christmas and believe no one should have to go it alone.
“We want to share the hope, joy and love of Christmas with everyone, particularly those who need it most at this time of year,” says Lieutenant Troy.
One of the ways locals can help the Salvos achieve this goal is to donate new children’s toys and non-perishable food items to their Christmas appeal.
The Salvos are working with St Vincent de Paul in Forbes and Anglicare in Parkes to develop a list of local people who are in need this Christmas and these people will be invited to pick up a parcel in the lead up to December 25.
“There’s going to be a big demand this Christmas - I would expect there will be at least a couple of hundred people on that list,” Lieutenant Troy said.
“In Forbes and Parkes last year we handed out [parcels] to 70 households, or 300 people. We expect to help the same number, or more, this year.”
As a parent, he said the thought of children going without a present at Christmas was heartbreaking.
“Parents often have to make a hard decision between getting something for their children or paying bills and the parents feel that pressure as well,” he said.
“As a parent, can you imagine the feeling of disappointment of not being able to provide for your kids at Christmas time?”
The Salvos are accepting donations at their family store, or at Forbes Bunnings, right up until Christmas, and there will be a Christmas Toy Run this Saturday (December 5), where locals are invited to donate any new toys to the appeal.
Gifts for children up to 16 years will be welcomed.
Forbes and Parkes locals are also invited to attend the combined churches carols service and The Salvation Army’s Christmas Day church service.
“So often we get caught up in this busy time of year,” says Lieutenant Troy.
“The carols are a time to stop and celebrate what Christmas is really all about, the coming of our saviour Jesus Christ. It’s free and it’s a great lead-in to the whole Christmas experience.”
Families in need can gain general assistance by telephoning the Salvos Assessment Line (SAL) on 1300 371 288 and access Christmas presents by contacting the local Salvation Army family stores in Forbes and Parkes.
Volunteers are always welcome and are needed to help pack toys and staff at distribution points.
