Nearly 15,000 Canberrans have already signed up to a Secret Santa with a difference. Charity GIVIT has partnered with Handmade Canberra for a contactless Christmas appeal that promotes local products, supports small business, and brings some joy to bushfire-affected communities.
GIVIT ACT & south east NSW regional manager Caroline Odgers said Canberra’s Christmas spirit would not be hampered, even after an intense year which saw bushfires and a global pandemic.
“This year, thousands of households across the South-East NSW region who have felt the brunt of the bushfires and COVID-19 will be gifted thoughtful, Australian made, sustainable, quality presents,” Caroline said.
“It’s exciting to think this could be the biggest ever secret Santa with almost 15,000 Canberrans already signed up to the appeal.”
GIVIT and Handmade Canberra hope this appeal will have financial flow-on effects for up to 120 stallholders also from fire-affected regions.
Guerilla Roasters head of sales Aymee Wise said it wasn’t long ago the Moruya-based coffee supplier and Handmade stallholder couldn’t access their coffee roastery due to fire and road closures.
“But thanks to the nationwide compassion shown to our little business, we are getting back on our feet and are stoked to be a part of the contactless Christmas appeal,” Aymee said.
To participate, connect to handmadecanberra.com.au/givit and select a gift upwards of $20 from any of the sellers. Use the seller’s promotional code to receive delivery for your donated gift.
GIVIT will receive your gift and donate it to one of their charity partners in a bushfire-affected region.
For participating workplaces, GIVIT will gift posters for your tearoom and gift bags for your Christmas tree.
The appeal will run until 24 December; email [email protected] to get involved.
