Gunnedah Shire residents are being encouraged to spread some Christmas cheer by donating gifts to the annual Gunnedah Shire Community Christmas Tree Toy Appeal.
The appeal, a long-running partnership between Gunnedah Shire Council and the Gunnedah Salvation Army, aims to provide Christmas gifts to local families experiencing hardship.
Council’s community and social planner Debra Hilton said rising living costs were placing increasing pressure on families, with Christmas adding to the financial strain.
“We’re all feeling the pinch as prices go up, and a big event like Christmas can make people feel stressed, not joyful, as they consider the costs,” she said.
“This initiative aims to relieve some of that stress for those who are feeling it the most, and to spread some hope through the generosity of others.
“If you are able to donate a gift – even something small – it will make a big difference to struggling families in our Shire.”
New and unwrapped gifts can be placed under the Christmas trees at Gunnedah Shire Council’s Administration Building, 63 Elgin Street, and Gunnedah Shire Library, 291 Conadilly Street.
Suggested donations include toys, clothing and accessories, books, sporting goods, games and activities, and gift vouchers.
Residents are also encouraged to consider gifts suitable for older children, who can sometimes be overlooked in Christmas toy appeals.
For health and hygiene reasons, food items and pre-loved toys cannot be accepted.
Donations must be received before 5pm on Monday, 7 December, 2026, with all gifts to be distributed to local families in the lead-up to Christmas.
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