15 December 2004

Barnardos staff in Auckland, bear gifts for children and families struggling over the Christmas season. The bears, donated by Kmart, as part of its Wishing Tree Christmas Appeal, will be distributed along with other donated gifts in time for Christmas. "We're really grateful to Kmart for providing this great opportunity, and to all those who have donated or intend donating gifts to the Appeal," says Beth Salter, Barnardos Support Manager (Northern).

“They will make a huge difference to the children who receive them. Christmas is traditionally a time for giving. For some families and children, however, Christmas can also be a stark reminder of the hard times they are facing. The gifts raised in this appeal are really appreciated by those who receive them, as are the caring sentiments behind the gifts.”

This is the 10th year that Kmart has run its Wishing Tree Appeal in New Zealand. Last year, more than 13,000 gifts were donated to Kmart’s 12 stores for distribution by leading children’s charity Barnardos and the Salvation Army. The Wishing Tree Appeal runs until Christmas Eve.

ENDS

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