Council launch Christmas Appeal for those in need

A Christmas Appeal has been launched to provide food and essential non-food items products to residents of the district who are most in need this Christmas. Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage launched the appeal this week.

For many of us, Christmas is a magical time, but we know for many families across our district it can often cause added financial pressure and stress. With the cost-of-living crisis that we are currently facing, more and more individuals and families locally are expected to turn to our food banks for help this Christmas as they struggle to put food on the table.

One small donation could bring some much-needed Christmas cheer to children and families within our local community.

At the launch of the Council’s Christmas Food Appeal, Newry, Mourne and Down District Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage said, “As we approach Christmas, many in our district face a combination of factors that will cause serious hardship for them. Some families will be faced with impossible choices — the choice of heating their home or putting presents under the tree, or the choice of buying Christmas dinner or new clothes for their children. Foodbanks located in our district work tirelessly all year round, always going the extra mile to help struggling families and individuals by providing food parcels and practical support to those most in need. To help even more families this year, I am appealing to the generosity of our residents and businesses to help us make a difference by donating. Five donation points are available across our district.”

Donation points will be open from Monday 21 November to Friday 9 December for food, toiletries, and hygiene products. The locations are as follows:

 Councillor Savage continued, “I know the compassion and generosity of our residents across Newry, Mourne and Down will come to the fore in helping to support this appeal to ensure every family can enjoy the magic of Christmas.”