Christmas cheer is arriving early for some Bay and Basin families, thanks to the generosity of Basin Shores Community Association residents.
For the past three weeks, residents have been leaving donations at their community centre to create beautifully assembled Christmas hampers.
These hampers, packed with festive goodies and essential items, will be distributed by BCR Communities, to families in need.
The project reflects the power of community spirit and kindness. Resident and former florist Sue Irvine, who took the lead in assembling the hampers, described the experience as a "labour of love."
“I put my hand up to create the hampers because I was a florist for 30 years, and I still have cellophane, ribbon, and all the bits and bobs to make them special,” Sue said.
“I made up little stories for each one—there’s one that will be perfect for a single mum with a baby girl, and another for a family that includes breakfast items, snacks, sweet treats for the kids, meal ingredients, and even pampering goodies for mum and dad.”
Chairperson of the Basin Shores Community Association Executive Committee, John Di-Masi, highlighted the significance of this year’s donation.
“We support a different charity each year, and this year, we really wanted to give to a local organisation that makes a big impact in our area,” John said. “BCR Communities is a Bay and Basin not-for-profit, so it felt like the perfect choice.”
“All these hampers show what we can achieve when we come together as a community,” he added. “We hope they bring a little extra joy and comfort to families this Christmas.”
The donation comes at a critical time, as many families in the region are grappling with the pressures of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Heather Marciano, CEO of BCR Communities, emphasised just how vital this support is for struggling families.
“We are thankful to the Basin Shores Community Association for choosing us as this year’s recipient,” Heather said. “The cost-of-living crisis has put many local families in stressful situations. Rising rents, increased grocery prices, and higher energy bills mean that for some, a joyful Christmas is looking very uncertain this year.”
Heather also highlighted the emotional and practical value of the hampers. “These hampers aren’t just about providing food or essentials—they remind families that their community cares about them,” she said. “For some, receiving this kind of support at Christmas can take a real weight off their shoulders.”
Heather encouraged others to consider how they can contribute during the festive season, highlighting the power of small acts of kindness. “Whether it’s a hamper, a donation, or simply checking in with a neighbour, every gesture strengthens our community,” she said.
The hampers, along with other donations of presents, food, and essential items, will be distributed to families through the BCR Communities network.
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