Community
21 November, 2025
Help spread joy this Christmas
THE south-west community is being encouraged to get behind this year’s Meli Giving Tree Appeal; a Christmas tradition that brings hope and joy to locals facing hardship.
The appeal, which launched last Thursday and will run until Tuesday, December 9, raises vital funds to support children, families, and individuals during what can be a difficult time of year.
Donations are distributed as gift cards, giving recipients the dignity and freedom to buy what they need most – whether that be food on the table, presents under the tree, or fuel to visit loved ones.
David Lodge, a senior financial counsellor at Meli, works closely with local clients and said the appeal comes as many south-west residents are grappling with rising living costs.
“What we’ve seen is people are struggling with the costs of just the basics like food, utilities, rent, and medicines,” he said.
“People are being forced to make choices; some are neglecting medications, while many are going without basic insurance on their motor vehicles.”
Mr Lodge said the festive season often amplified the challenges for some of the most vulnerable members of the community.
This year, more locals are turning to Meli for food hampers and essential support as financial strain reaches levels he hasn’t seen in more than a decade as a counsellor.
“The Christmas period puts a lot of stress on families,” he said.
“Parents don’t want their children to go without, and Christmas can be expensive – the food, the presents, all of it.
“It can be a stressful time for people when they are in financial hardship.”
He said community generosity through initiatives such as the annual Meli Giving Tree Appeal could make a genuine difference.
“This appeal is really welcomed by the people we support,” he said.
“It lightens the load and gives them a bit of joy in the Christmas period.”
Last year the campaign raised $110,000 and supported more than 2,300 families and individuals.
For local mother Emma (name changed for privacy), the Giving Tree Appeal helped her family feel seen and supported during a difficult time.
“Receiving this support meant my four children could still wake up on Christmas morning and see gifts under the tree,” she said.
“I’m forever grateful.”
Meli chief executive officer Robyn Hayles said the appeal was a powerful way for the community to come together and support locals facing challenges this festive season.
“Christmas should be a time of connection and celebration, but for many it’s a time of real financial and emotional strain,” Ms Hayles said.
“Even a small donation can make a big difference to a local family in need.
“Your act of kindness can make a difference this Christmas. Donate today at meligivingtree.org.au”
