Riverwood Community Centre Toy Drive

This Christmas, we are proud to once again support the Riverwood Community Centre Toy Drive, helping bring some festive joy to local families who may be doing it tough. The Riverwood Community Centre Toy Drive is about much more than collecting gifts. It is about ensuring local children and families facing hardship feel seen, supported and remembered during what can be one of the most challenging times of the year.

From 27 November through to 11 December, we will be collecting donations under our Christmas tree at reception, with all gifts being delivered to the Community Centre on 11 December to help support their Christmas distribution program.

While toys for young children are always gratefully received, there is an often-overlooked need for older children and teenagers aged 12-18 years. As many families and community organisations receive a large number of donations for younger age groups, teenagers can sometimes miss out.

This year, we are encouraging our community to think beyond traditional toys and consider gifts that reflect the interests and needs of older children. Sporting equipment, art supplies, books, headphones, personal care packs, gift vouchers and hobby-related items can make a significant difference and help ensure every young person feels included at Christmas.

There is also growing recognition of the challenges faced by single-parent households, particularly single mothers navigating increased cost-of-living pressures. Practical donations such as supermarket gift cards can provide meaningful support by helping families purchase groceries, household essentials or Christmas meals, while also allowing parents the dignity of choosing what their family needs most.

Every donation, no matter the size, helps create a brighter Christmas for local families. What may seem like a simple gift can provide comfort, excitement and hope to a child, while reminding families that their community cares.

Last year, the generosity of our members, guests and team helped make a real difference, and we are hopeful that together we can once again support the Riverwood Community Centre in bringing Christmas cheer to those who need it most.

If you would like to contribute, simply place your new, unwrapped gift beneath our Christmas tree at reception before 11 December.

Together, we can help ensure that every child, teenager and family experiences a little extra joy this Christmas.