Three leading Tasmanian organisations have joined forces to ensure vulnerable community members aren’t forgotten this festive season, as demand for support services reaches unprecedented levels.
St Lukes has partnered with Hobart City Mission and Home Base in a Christmas donation drive, encouraging Tasmanians to donate non-perishable foods, gifts for children and essential items at their Elizabeth Street wellness hub in Hobart.
St Lukes CEO Paul Lupo said the initiative aims to ease holiday stress for struggling families.
“Christmas is a time to spend quality time together, but for the many in our community who are doing it tough, the holiday season can bring an extra layer of stress,” he said.
“This Christmas, alongside our charity partners, we hope to lift some of the load. Helping each other when we’re down is an enduring Tasmanian quality.”
The collaboration comes as Hobart City Mission reports a 50% increase in demand for services this year.
Hobart City Mission CEO Harvey Lennon said many families are finding it impossible to make ends meet.
“Right now, more Tasmanian families are reaching out for help than ever before,” he said. “Many are working hard but still can’t afford enough food or fuel to get through the week, let alone make Christmas special.”
Home Base, which provided 3,422 nights of safe accommodation and engaged 889 young Tasmanians in support programs last year, highlighted the particular challenges faced by youth during the holidays.
“For many young Tasmanians, the festive season can be a hard reminder of what’s missing,” said Home Base CEO Di Underwood. “Some may feel invisible and left behind as they struggle to connect.”
St Lukes has kickstarted the campaign with a $5,000 donation to each charity partner and is hosting free community events throughout December, including craft sessions and a family fun day.
Donations will be accepted at St Lukes’ Hobart wellness hub at 72 Elizabeth Street until December 5. Items must be unwrapped and a schedule of free Christmas-themed workshops is available on the St Lukes website.
