Newtown’s community spirit shines at Christmas

Newtown’s strong sense of community has once again come to the fore, with hundreds of local families supported through the Christmas period thanks to the efforts of The Salvation Army and the generosity of people across the town.

The Salvation Army in Newtown has thanked residents, workplaces and community organisations for their support, which helped provide food, toys and essential items to families when they needed it most.

In the lead-up to Christmas, 446 children received Christmas toy vouchers for local shops, helping ensure presents could still be part of the festive season. In addition, 234 households were supported with Christmas food vouchers, while 12 families received baby bundles containing essentials such as clothing, Moses baskets and toiletries for both baby and parent.

Samantha Jones, who leads The Salvation Army Church in Newtown, said the support demonstrated the kindness that exists across the community.

“As a Christian church and charity, whose motto is ‘Love God, Love others’, we’re grateful for all the support we’ve received through workplaces, churches and other organisations who have helped us to support families when they’ve needed a hand up,” she said.

“We’re especially grateful to all our volunteers who have not only worked hard but made each working day a joy. When love came down this Christmas, Jesus showed love where it was needed most, in forgotten places, at the edges of society, in the lives pushed to the margins.”

Ms Jones also paid tribute to the Outlaw Motorcycle Group and Newtown Rugby for organising food drives, which played an important role in supporting local families.

Support for those in need has continued throughout the year, with 648 households receiving a three-day food parcel from The Salvation Army in Newtown.

The organisation says the ongoing generosity of the community continues to make a real difference to families facing difficult circumstances.