By Mikayla van Loon
Thanks and gratitude was in the air on Tuesday 27 February as the donors, organisers and recipients of the Rotary Club of Lilydale’s (RCL) wishing tree project gathered.
In honour of all involved to bring the project to life, RCL hosted a dinner of appreciation, bringing together all the groups and individuals who helped in some way.
RCL president Arun Marappan said with the pressures of living for many families in 2023, the club wasn’t sure how people in the community would respond to donating gifts and yet it exceeded expectations.
“Together, as a result of the generous support given by you and yours, just over 1,300 Christmas gifts were donated. A total of $2,600 in gift cards was also donated.
“A wonderful result for the children and young people from struggling families.
“You all made a contribution and ‘put in’ and your efforts and contribution, whether big or small, is appreciated. Every gift is a gift and made a difference to someone at Christmas time.”
Chief executive officer of one of the receiving organisations, Anchor, too shared the concern that donations and goods may fall due to the rising cost of living for all in the outer east.
“Broadly across the fundraising sector, this has been the case and many charity organisations have seen less donations over the past year,” she said.
“So it is so incredibly heartwarming to see the Rotary’s wishing tree project inspiring generosity in the community that goes against the expected trend.”
Mr Marappan said the wishing tree appeal and the support of the community is an example of the Rotary International theme for 2024 – create hope in the world.
Witnessing this on the ground as he handed out presents, Lilydale’s Proactive Policing Unit senior constable Luke Egginton said it brought joy not only to the children but to him as well.
“[Delivering gifts to] the Lilydale Motor Inn was a special highlight for me. I was able to locate a number of families in the complex, living with young children,” he said.
“They were families that could not afford presents for their kids and were clearly struggling.
“Handing out gifts to the parents, they shared some of the stories of the life challenges they currently face, and it was clear as to why I was met with tears of joy and appreciation.”
Both Ms Tucker and Mr Egginton said for the people they support and engage with, particularly at Christmas time, it makes a world of difference to know they are visible.
“For families who are struggling, for families experiencing crisis, knowing there are warm and generous people in the community can be life changing,” Ms Tucker said.
“Your efforts are transformative and brighten the paths of many who deserve kindness and care in their lives.”
While Anchor and the Proactive Policing Unit were the main recipients of the gifts, with so many donated in 2023, RCL was able to provide some to the Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service, Anglicare Lilydale and Boorndawan Willam Aboriginal Healing Centre.
“Thank you especially to everyone from the businesses, organisations and club members that helped make the 2023 Wishing Tree Appeal a big success,” Mr Marappan said.
