With Christmas around the corner, the annual Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal is underway again, including in Hobsons Bay.
Run in conjunction with the Salvation Army, the 2025 appeal was officially launched at Altona Gate Shopping Centre on Friday 14 November, with students from St Leo the Great Primary School singing Christmas carols for the occasion.
“Kmart and The Salvation Army work hand in hand each Christmas, and teaming up with St Leo the Great Primary School has helped bring our whole community together,” Hobsons Bay Salvos Minister, Captain Paul Trotter, said of the launch event.
“Together, we can share the true spirit of Christmas with every family.”
Christmas is always the busiest time of year for the Salvos, but Ministry Assistant at Hobsons Bay Savlos, Tania Luca, said the ongoing cost of living crisis meant they were expecting a record number of people seeking their assistance this year.
“Every day we meet parents, especially single mums, who are distressed and losing hope as Christmas approaches,” Ms Luca said.
“When the cost-of-living crisis takes away life’s essentials, the special things that bring joy can become unimaginable extras.”
Those wanting to give to the appeal can place a gift under the Wishing Tree at Kmart Altona Gate.
