People doing it tough this year are encouraged to apply for a hamper

Residents doing it tough this year may be eligible for a Christmas hamper.

Made possible through the Mayor’s Christmas Charity, the hampers include food staples and Christmas treats.

Council works with local charities and organisations to identify local families and senior citizens who are in need of some extra assistance at Christmas time.

Council does not accept hamper applications directly.

For more details on applying for a hamper, go to Council’s website at cairns.qld.gov.au/christmas.

The community can also do its bit to assist by donating to the Mayor’s Christmas Chairty, with funds used to provide hampers.

Council is hoping to be able to provide 1000 hampers to people in need this year, with enough funds having been raised thus far for about 800 hampers.

Every donation, big or small, can light up someone's Christmas with a food hamper. (Donations over $2 are tax deductible.)