As excitement for the silly season builds, ENH administration assistant Alyx Jorgensen is rallying the troops to make sure everyone gets to experience a bit of festive cheer.
“This is the fifth year I’ve been involved with our reverse advent calendar program, the sixth total,” Ms Jorgensen said.
“It is just so special, seeing the reaction on people’s faces when we give them their boxes is just priceless.”
Ms Jorgensen is heading ENH’s reverse advent calendar drive, an initiative where individuals, business and groups can pick up an empty box and return it filled with everyday items to be gifted to locals in need.
The empty boxes have been decorated by participants in Echuca’s School's OUT! program, with the idea to create a project everyone can contribute to in the lead-up to Christmas.
“It’s a really cool drive,” Ms Jorgensen said.
“People tell us making a box allows them to intentionally get together and work to do something meaningful.
“It’s also an excellent way to show kids the other side of giving as we head into Christmas.”
The charity is asking volunteers to fill the boxes with shelf-stable pantry staples such as pasta and tinned food, everyday essentials like soap and toilet paper, and a Christmas item or two.
“These boxes change lives,” Ms Jorgensen said.
“I’ve had people tell me receiving the items means they can buy their children a present for Christmas, and I can’t think of a more practical way to have a really positive impact on someone else.”
Those interested in getting involved can pick up an empty box from Echuca Neighbourhood House between October 19 and November 23.
People can also make their own boxes, but are asked to contact Alyx Jorgensen to co-ordinate it with ENH.
For more information, contact ENH on 03 5482 6914.
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