For the seventh year in a row, the Annual Christmas shop has brought joy to families experiencing financial hardship during the festive season. Opening for three days, the shop provided presents for 174 children, helping 87 families.

The Christmas shop is made possible by the support of the Andrews Foundation, a Trust Fund established by the late Ron Andrews, devoted to improving the quality of life in the South East Region of Victoria.

This year, the Foundation provided a $15,000 grant to the West Gippsland Healthcare Group’s (WGHG) Allied and Community Health department, with the vision of ensuring every child in the community experiences joy and inclusion during the festive season.

Families were invited to the Christmas Shop to hand-pick gifts at no cost, with two gifts per child, designed to promote dignity and choice, recognising the increasing cost-of-living pressures faced by many local families.

The program operated with support from the Andrews Foundation, WGHG Allied & Community Health teams and volunteers who assist in sorting, preparing, and wrapping gifts.

WGHG Health Promotion Officer, Rebecca Creed says “The Christmas Shop lets parents choose gifts that really suit their child – what they love, what will make them smile. When families walk in, we want them to feel welcome & supported. It’s a calm & friendly space where you can see the relief when parents realise, they can still give their kids a special Christmas”.

An attendee said, “After unexpected medical costs for my baby’s new hip brace and now needing a car seat that works with the brace, being able to take the pressure off Christmas by visiting the Christmas Shop has been such an incredible help.” 

Chief Executive Officer, Shannon Wight says “We’re truly grateful and honoured to have the support of the Andrews Foundation. The Christmas Shop, supports parents to choose their children’s gifts and brings joy to families across West Gippsland.”