As many gather with loved ones this festive season, some in the community face the harsh reality of not having the same privilege.
For those struggling, organisations like Foothills Community Care and the Ferntree Gully Salvation Army play a vital role in ensuring no one is left behind.
This year, the generous Gully Market has once again stepped up to support these groups with a total donation of $5000, split evenly between the two organisations to help fund Christmas lunches, hampers, gifts, and food relief for families.
The Gully Market’s president, Ian Rice said the importance of giving at this time of year speaks for itself.
“Most people take it for granted because they gather with family or friends, but many do not have this experience, that’s where Foothills and the Salvation Army step in,” Mr Rice said.
Foothills Community Care chief executive officer Stephen Barrington said the $2500 donation will directly support its long-running community Christmas lunches.
“This is our 24th year running our Christmas lunches, and we already have more than 300 people booked in,” he said.
Mr Barrington said the lunches are about far more than food.
“It’s a whole celebration. We put on a full meal with all the trimmings, entertainment, face painting, a Christmas angel and gifts for every person, from one year old to 99,” he said.
“We want people to feel accepted and know they belong.”
Mr Barrington said the donation from The Gully Market makes a significant difference.
“It goes a long way to providing our 60 kilos of pork and lamb, the chicken, the veggies and the salads. Knowing that the cost of meat and food is covered is fantastic,” he said.
This year marks the third time the market has supported Foothills.
Mr Barrington said the rising cost of living have brought more families to them than ever before.
“We’re seeing so many people who have never had to ask for help before. The gap between what comes in and what goes out is shrinking for families every week,” he said.
“For some, we are literally a homelessness-prevention organisation. People tell us they would not be able to keep up with rent or bills without this support. It’s a sad indictment on society, but it shows how vital community is.”
Mr Barrington said he’s deeply grateful the market and the broader community for their support.
“It’s local funds supporting local people. We’re a grassroots organisation, and nothing is too small. Everyone is welcome at our table,” he said.
At the Ferntree Gully Salvation Army, Major Rosie Massey said the $2500 donation has allowed them to expand their Christmas hamper program.
“We’ve been able to purchase food for our hampers, including gluten-free and halal items, so we can cater to families with diverse needs,” she said.
The Salvos expect to support around 150 families across the Knox region.
“Without support from organisations like The Gully Market, we would struggle financially to provide food for Christmas and throughout the year. We rely heavily on sponsors and donations,” Ms Massey said.
“We’re seeing financial distress due to mortgage stress, electricity and gas bills, and other rising costs.”
Ms Massey said moments of gratitude often stay with her.
“We often see people break down in tears when they receive their Christmas support. They don’t expect to get as much as we’re able to give, and that’s only because we have such a generous community,” she said.
She also acknowledged the volunteers who help prepare and distribute the hampers.
“We don’t turn anyone away. People may not celebrate Christmas in the same way, but everyone deserves a good season,” Ms Massey said.
“We can’t do this without the wonderful traders who get together every week and still think of us. We are very grateful, and so is the community.”
The Gully Market operates every Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 3pm at the Upper Ferntree Gully railway station, with funds funnelled back into supporting local groups and families.
The Gully Market will go on break after Sunday 21 December and will return on Saturday 10 January.
More information about Foothills Community Care can be found at: www.foothillscare.org.au/about-us
