After a year filled with uncertainty and challenges, hundreds of children and young people across regional South Australia received an extra special gift at Christmas through Baptist Care SA’s Limestone Coast Toy Run.
Businesses, community groups and individuals have been hurting due to the impact of the pandemic, but this did not prevent the community from rallying together to raise close to $9,000 for families in need throughout the region.
Over several days, a team of seven volunteers from the Mount Gambier Baptist Church then spent hours thoughtfully purchasing gifts with the donations; praying over each gift and for each child who was to receive it.
“We’re happy to work with Baptist Care SA and help out wherever we’re needed,” says Jen Buchanan, who oversees Women’s Ministry at the church, “It’s such a good cause and a great way to support local kids and their families. These truly are gifts of love.”
In total, 352 children and young people received gifts which were distributed through 12 schools and community organisations across the Limestone Coast region.
“We’re grateful for the support of the Church – both for their assistance in purchasing the gifts, but also for erecting and dismantling a massive marquee for us on the day of the event.
And of course we’d like to thank the businesses, community groups, clubs and individuals who helped us deliver Christmas cheer and blessings to children and families in need,” said Baptist Care SA Area Manager, John Merrett.
