CHRISTMAS is the time for giving, which means there is no better time to help those less fortunate in the community.
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The Target and UnitingCare Giving Box appeal will give Manning Valley residents a chance to make Christmas a little brighter for many in the community.
The appeal launched on November 6 and will run through till Christmas Eve.
A large Giving Box will be displayed at the front of every Target and Target Country store, with shoppers encouraged to place unwrapped gifts inside or take a bauble gift tag to make a donation at the register.
The appeal is now in its 23rd year and thanks to the support of generous Australians, has distributed more than 1.7 million gifts.
UnitingCare local co-ordinator Narelle Penman encouraged Manning Valley shoppers to support the appeal.
"There are many families in our community who are going to find it really tough to provide gifts for their children this year," she said.
"We rely on fellow locals to dig deep, so please support our appeal at Target Taree, we make sure all donated gifts go to local families."
Rev Penman said having UnitingCare involved with the appeal gave her a sense of pride.
"It sure does, and we find families really appreciate what we do for them," she said.
"People are very generous in their giving, and we appreciate the community's efforts throughout the year."
Rev Penman said the appeal would help to alleviate the pressures many in the community felt due to the festive season.
"Christmas is often a time of great stress, because families are aware of what they can't afford and the expectations," she said.
"We provide peace of mind for those who may struggle to buy presents, and it's a chance for them to relax and alleviate the stress during Christmas."
Target Taree store manager Glenn Humphrey said the appeal is important because some kids wake up on Christmas with nothing.
"Because it puts the whole idea that you can give something as simple as a toy to kids," he said.
"It's not $50, it's something simple for kids who can wake up thinking Santa is here."
More than 26,000 Australian families benefited last year from the Giving Box appeal, and this year organisers hope to collect 100,000 gifts to support 60,000 Australian families.
For more information on the appeal visit www.givingbox.com.au
