The Salvos’ annual toy drive gets a boost

Greater Bank joins hands with Newcastle Permanent to bring joy this Christmas

The Salvos’ annual toy drive gets a boost

The Salvation Army and NGM Group, which includes Newcastle Permanent and Greater Bank, are calling on locals to contribute to the Salvos’ annual Christmas Toy Drive Appeal.

Now in its 35th year, the Salvation Army’s partnership with Newcastle Permanent welcomed Greater Bank as a new collection point for the Toy Drive, aiming to assist families across New South Wales and Queensland.

Building on Newcastle Permanent’s success

Last year, Newcastle Permanent branches across regional NSW saw an impressive 6,000 gifts donated.

With Greater Bank branches now adding to the donation points this year, the initiative is anticipating an even greater impact, acknowledging the growing need for assistance in the community.

“From January to August of this year, our Doorways Emergency Relief services and Mission and Communities recorded a 15% increase in the number of people assisted. We are expecting to see a similar trend this Christmas,” said Rod Dibley, Salvation Army public relations and community engagement manager, in a media release.

“In fact, we are certain that there will be people reaching out for help this Christmas from the Salvos who we have never seen before.”

Greater Bank joins the cause

James Cudmore, NGM Group chief customer and digital innovation officer, said Greater Bank joining the toy drive will address the growing need.

“With Newcastle Permanent and Greater Bank coming together, we have grown our ability to help in our communities," Cudmore said.

“Each year, we are proud to be able to support the Salvos’ Christmas Toy Drive Appeal, and we are even more proud that we will now be able to expand our reach. We know that the Salvos help thousands of people have a merry Christmas, and it’s an honour to be able to contribute.”

Bringing joy during challenging times

Dibley said that with an increasing number of people struggling with essential needs, the idea of buying gifts for children and loved ones becomes overwhelmingly challenging and, for some, downright impossible.

“A little bit of generosity from those that are able goes a long way, and I know with community support we’ll be able to put some smiles on faces on Christmas Day,” he said.

Donations can be made at any Newcastle Permanent or Greater Bank branch until Dec. 15. Gifts, new and unwrapped, for all ages, including teenagers, are welcome.

“Any and all donations are hugely appreciated,” Dibley said.

For those who are short on ideas about what to donate, they can never go wrong with the classics, such as toys, clothing, books, and games. Gifts for older kids and teenagers are also welcome, such as vouchers, sporting equipment, beauty products, and fashion accessories.

Pictured above, from left to right, are NGM Group’s Cudmore and Caroline, Maegyn Spencer, and Dibley of the Salvation Army.

As Christmas approaches, discover valuable tips for wise spending this holiday season from two helpful links: here and here.

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