Smith Family Plays Santa For Strugglers
Illawarra Mercury
Tuesday December 21, 1999
Christmas is a little brighter for 1500 families across the region - thanks to The Smith Family.
The Smith Family yesterday ended its Christmas appeal as it gave out more than 6000 toys and 1500 Christmas hampers filled with treats like lollies, peanuts, Christmas cake and cheese.
For struggling families with children that may otherwise face a Christmas without many things, the excitement was obvious on the children's faces as balloons and lollies were handed out as they waited in line.
The Smith Family development manager Chris Beaven said the demand for support was higher this year than in the past.
``There have been more families coming to us than ever," she said.
Ms Beaven said The Smith Family had begun its Christmas campaign earlier this year, and had been collecting and coordinating the hampers and children's gifts since early November.
``We are always in need of money," she said.
``It's never enough, we would like to be able to give more."
Wollongong Lord Mayor George Harrison said he was surprised at the number of people who came to The Smith Family for support yesterday.
``My heart goes out for these people," he said.
``Hopefully, if we can make society richer no-one will be in this position."
Cunningham MP Stephen Martin said he was shocked to see the number of people waiting on the Christmas hampers.
``Howard (John Howard, Prime Minister) should come down an look at this," he said.
``They say the economy is better and stronger, but as the people in the line say `why can't I see it?'."
© 1999 Illawarra Mercury
