Final Fundraising Drive for Blue Santa’s 600 Christmas Boxes

Operation Blue Santa is making a concerted effort to finalize fundraising for its tenth annual delivery of Christmas boxes, aiming to distribute a total of 600 boxes this year, an increase of 50 from last year. The initiative, organized by the Roderique Hope Trust in collaboration with the Police Family Harm Team, seeks to provide holiday cheer to families in need, particularly those who may not otherwise receive gifts during the festive season.

According to Michelle Ramage, general manager of the Roderique Hope Trust, while fundraising has progressed well, additional contributions are still necessary to meet their goal. The program has become a staple in the community, with half of the boxes allocated to families the police have interacted with throughout the year, and the remaining half designated for families nominated by social service agencies, including Women’s Refuge and Taranaki Retreat.

Community Volunteers Mobilize for Packing Day

On December 20, 2023, a dedicated group of 95 volunteers gathered to pack the Christmas boxes. “We’re going start to finish,” said Ramage. “Normally we would do 300 in the morning and 300 in the afternoon, but this year, thanks to the incredible support from our venue, we are able to tackle all 600 at once.”

The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm as local businesses allowed their employees to take time off to participate. Volunteers included individuals from over a dozen companies, as well as members of the Police Family Harm Team from both North and South Taranaki. Ramage noted that she has received numerous inquiries about volunteer opportunities since July, highlighting the community’s spirit of giving.

Delivery Plans and Community Impact

Deliveries of the Christmas boxes will commence on December 21, 2023, and continue through to Christmas Day. Some police officers have opted to personally deliver boxes on December 25, ensuring that families receive their gifts directly from those who nominated them. Sergeant Vivian Teremoana, the Police Family Harm coordinator for Taranaki, expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from Roderique Hope Trust. “We are fortunate to have this initiative in our community for the last ten years. It is humbling to be part of something that brings joy to families.”

Each box costs $100, and donations can be made through the Roderique Hope Trust’s website at roderiquehopetrust.co.nz. The final fundraising push is crucial to ensure that all 600 boxes can be delivered, embodying the spirit of Christmas and community support during the holiday season.