The childcare centre has set up a wishing tree for the local refuge and are asking all families and members of the community to bring along a present and/or a non-perishable food item.

Presents can be for children aged from zero to 16, while the food items will go towards a hamper for the mums at the women’s refuge.

The wishing tree is the idea of Bright Beginnings teacher Katie Spence who wanted to give back to the community and thought the women’s refuge is a great cause.

“I’m trying to get more involved in the community and teaching the kids it’s not all about getting gifts, it’s about giving as well,” Katie said.

“[The women’s refuge] is quite busy over Christmas too which is sad.

“We’re trying to take the stress out of it for them as I think most of [the women] just leave with the clothes on their backs.

“I’m just trying to make someone else’s Christmas a little brighter.”

The wishing tree has been up for just a week and already it is surrounded by presents.

“We’ve had a really good response,” Ms Spence said.

“I encourage people to donate and think about other people at Christmas time.”

Anyone is welcome to donate a present or food item and can leave it under the tree in the Bright Beginnings foyer before Christmas.

The presents will be distributed in the week of Christmas and any presents leftover will be distributed to women in Condobolin or Peak Hill.