St Saviours Cathedral holds ninth Christmas Giving Tree appeal

This will be the ninth annual Christmas Giving Tree appeal at the church and the dean Phillip Saunders said it was their most important one yet, given the challenging year that has passed.

"The ministry of Christmas Giving Tree in the cathedral is probably more important than ever this year," dean Saunders said.

READ ALSO: HE WAS MY BEST MATE: MP mourns loss of Andrew Goldman

"Please bring in your new, unwrapped presents, and Anglicare will distribute them to those in need in the Goulburn area."

Residents are encouraged to donate unwrapped presents for children and young people of all ages on or prior to Tuesday December 22.

Gifts will then be distributed to families in need in the Goulburn area and handed out by Anglicare staff and volunteers.

READ ALSO: Art gallery takes out IMAGinE awards' innovation and resilience category

Anglicare's coordinator of Housing and Community Services, Jodie Watson, said that many people across Anglicare's services were experiencing hardship.

"We assist families through many services in Goulburn and surrounding areas including Emergency Relief and Homelessness Support Services, and many people are desperate for assistance with presents and food during the Christmas and New Year period," Ms Watson said.

"Through our Homelessness Support Service alone, we assisted 648 people in the past 12 months which is the highest numbers we've seen.

READ ALSO: Goulburn man convicted after night out turns violent

"Job insecurity, domestic violence, financial problems and relationship breakdowns all contribute to household stress, especially at this time of year.

"The simple but generous act of donating a toy or a book can lift a huge burden from a family who are wondering how to keep food on the table, let alone buy presents for their children.

"It makes a significant difference and allows families to stay afloat financially and not fall into unnecessary debt and hardship."

St Saviours Cathedral is located on 170 Bourke St.

Did you know the Goulburn Post is now offering breaking news alerts and a weekly email newsletter? Keep up-to-date with all the local news: sign up below.