Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has launched a Christmas Appeal to provide food and essential non-food items products to residents who are most in need this Christmas.
For many of us, Christmas is a magical time, however for other more vulnerable families across the district it can often cause added financial pressure and stress.
With your help this year council hope to offer crucial support to those most in need during the festive period. One small
donation could bring some much-needed Christmas cheer to children and families within your local community.
At the launch of the Council’s Christmas Appeal, Newry, Mourne and Down District Chairperson, Councillor Cathy Mason said: “As we approach Christmas, many in our district face a combination of factors that will cause serious hardship for them.
“Some families will be faced with impossible choices — the choice of heating their home or putting presents under the tree, or the choice of buying Christmas dinner or new clothes for their children.
She added: Foodbanks located in our district work tirelessly all year round, always going the extra mile to help struggling families and individuals by providing food parcels and practical support to those most in need.
“To help even more families this year, I am appealing to the generosity of our residents and businesses to help us make a difference by donating. Seven donation points are available across our district.”
Donation points will be open from Monday 21 November to Friday 10 December for food, toiletries, and hygiene products. The locations are as follows:
Council Offices, Downshire Civic Centre, Downpatrick Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
Council Offices, Monaghan Row, Newry Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
Ballynahinch Market House Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm
Castlewellan Community Centre Tuesday and Wednesday 10am to 12pm
Crossmaglen Community Centre Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9am to 5pm, Tuesday 9am to 2pm, and Thursday 6pm to 9pm
Kilkeel Leisure Centre Monday to Friday 9am to 9pm and Saturday 9am to 4pm
Newcastle Centre Monday to Friday 9am to 9pm and Saturday 9am to 4pm.
Councillor Mason continued, “I know the compassion and generosity of our residents across Newry, Mourne and Down will come to the fore in helping to support this appeal to ensure every family can enjoy the magic of Christmas.”
