Mallee Family Care’s 2025 Christmas Appeal has supported more children than ever before, thanks to the generosity of local businesses, community groups and individuals.
862 children across the region received gifts through the annual appeal, which represents a 58 per cent increase, highlighting both the generosity of the community and the growing need for support.
Mallee Family Care CEO, Teresa Jayet paid tribute to the dozens of people and businesses that supported the 2025 Appeal, ensuring hundreds of children and young people experienced the joy of receiving a gift on Christmas Day.
“While we are incredibly proud of what our community achieved together, the fact that so many children and families needed support through the appeal is a clear reminder that many in our community face significant challenges due to their personal circumstances,” Ms Jayet said.
The Christmas Appeal supports children and families experiencing vulnerability, including financial hardship, family violence, homelessness and other significant challenges. For many families, the cost of Christmas presents is simply out of reach.
“A gift might seem small, but it carries a powerful message to a child – that they are cared for and not forgotten,” Ms Jayet said.
In the last year, the agency supported more than 7,900 clients through programs spanning family support, early intervention, mental health, disability, legal assistance, housing, and financial counselling.
“Our client numbers grew by around 12 per cent last year,” Ms Jayet said.
