Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips has launched her Christmas food drive to assist struggling families in the region.

Mrs Phillips has this year thrown her support behind two services, the Shoalhaven Homeless Hub in Nowra and Pivot Point Outreach in Batemans Bay.

“I know many families and individuals are doing it tough, and I know there are many people in our community who want to help take the pressure off this Christmas,” Mrs Phillips said.

“By dropping off festive goodies to my Nowra or Batemans Bay office, the people of Gilmore can help spread some love and bring Christmas cheer to those that need it most.

“We live in such a wonderful, supportive community and people are always keen to give.

“Whether it’s cookies, chocolates or a good old Christmas pud, these small donations can make help bring a smile to local people who are homeless, or who have escaped domestic violence.”

Mrs Phillips said the volunteers at the SAHSSI Shoalhaven Homeless Hub worked hard to ensure people were supported and cared for year ‘round, but it was especially important at Christmas time.

“We know people can feel more alone than ever if they can’t be with family and friends over the holiday season,” she said.

“The homeless hub is a safe place for those in need and I hope that people will give generously.”

Batemans Bay Uniting Church’s Pivot Point Outreach service offers emergency assistance and supplies for people facing hardship or during time of crisis.

“By giving to my food drive, people can bring some Christmas smiles to those doing it tough,” Mrs Phillips said.

“I know there are people out there that will be going without this Christmas, and every donation, no matter how small, will make a big difference.”

Mrs Phillips thanked those who have already given to the food drive, and the many volunteers who continue to give their time to help those less fortunate in our community.

Donations of non-perishable goods can be dropped at the Nowra office, next to the Post Office in Junction Street Nowra, from 9am – 5pm weekdays, and at the Batemans Bay office at 6-8 Orient Street from 10am -2pm Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and Thursday from 10am – 1pm.

Photo: Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips is encouraging the community to give generously to her Christmas food drive.

 Media contact: Katrina Condie 0437 662 967