Council supports Secret Santa appeal for vulnerable senior residents

Redland City Council is proud to once again support an annual Secret Santa appeal for donations for vulnerable senior residents on Redlands Coast.

Mayor Karen Williams said the STAR Community Services initiative provided an opportunity for the community to support elderly residents who may be spending the Christmas period alone.

“Council has been a proud supporter of this appeal since it started five years ago, with drop-off points for donations at each of our mainland libraries at Capalaba, Cleveland and Victoria Point,” Cr Williams said.

“Christmas is usually a time of joy but for many senior residents it can be one of the toughest times of the year, especially if they live alone or are isolated.

“Connections with others is the cornerstone of security and wellbeing for older residents and Council is committed to promoting community organisations that support isolated and vulnerable older adults so our seniors know they are not alone, especially during the festive season.

“The STAR Secret Santa appeal is a great initiative that helps make Christmas a little brighter for our senior residents.”

STAR Community Services CEO Patsy Wilshire said the appeal was launched in 2019 as part of STAR’s commitment to fight the growing problem of social isolation among older Australians.

“The problem of loneliness among the seniors may be huge to tackle at once, but meaningful acts of kindness can help us all move in the right direction,” Ms Wilshire said.

“By contributing gifts and donations, whether small or large, we can help brighten the spirits of those who are at risk of isolation and ensure that no-one feels left out during this special time of year.

“Together, we can create a warm and inclusive Christmas for all.”

More than 2500 gifts and 6200 food and personal items were donated during last year’s Secret Santa appeal on Redlands Coast, and were packaged into 761 hampers that were presented to local seniors on both the mainland and islands.

Donations of gifts suitable for people over 65 and non-perishable food items can be left in STAR donation tubs inside Capalaba, Cleveland and Victoria Point libraries during opening hours from 1 November until 20 December 2023.

Suggested gift ideas include socks, coffee, towels, vouchers, pamper packs, hand cream, fruit cake, tea cups, crockery and household goods.

The mainland libraries are located at:

They are all open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 4pm.

There are other drop-off locations across Redlands Coast listed on STAR Community Services’ website at starcommunityservices.org.au

For more information on the Secret Santa appeal, phone STAR Community Services on 3821 6699.