This festive season, locals are being encouraged to get behind a hamper drive to help those less fortunate in our community. 

Ninderry MP Dan Purdie said his office is a drop off location for donations of non-perishable items as part of Urban Angels Christmas Hamper Appeal. 

Mr Purdie said the hamper drive is being coordinated by local resident Melanie Ottaway, who has been raising funds for charities in the local area for several years.  

“I am always so happy to raise awareness for the Christmas Hamper Appeal, as it really helps those in need in our community.  

“It is a wonderful initiative for everyone, to ensure we can do our part and get involved. Thank you again to Mel for always supporting our hard-working charities, such as Urban Angels,” Mr Purdie said. 

“You don’t need to go out and spend money; it can be an item you no longer need in the pantry. We can all contribute this Christmas. 

“It doesn’t take one, but it takes many to make a difference,” Melanie said. 

The Christmas Hamper Appeal is an initiative of Urban Angels, a local charity providing nutritious meals for people who need support in this way.  

Nearly 200 volunteers and a small number of staff distribute meals made with love to support the less fortunate in our community. 

Non-perishable items being requested include including canned soup and other meals, canned salmon and tuna, canned fruit, nut trail mixes and snacks, tea and coffee, long life milk and condiments and spreads.  

Leading up to Christmas, Urban Angels will also be putting together roast dinners for as many people as possible. Plum puddings, to go with the roast dinners, are also welcome.  

Locals are being asked to drop in their donations as soon as possible, to give the volunteers plenty of time to put them together and distribute before Christmas. 

The donations can be dropped off to Dan’s office at 11 Heathfield Road, Coolum Beach by the 19th of December 2024 or directly to Urban Angels, at Unit 4, 27 Service Street, Maroochydore.  

ENDS