Each year, thousands of children in New Zealand miss out on receiving Christmas gifts from Santa, and with families feeling the pinch from the cost of living, it can be difficult to stretch money out for the holiday season.
South Otago residents are doing what they do best — seeing how they can help in the area.
Balclutha resident Jenna Morris said when she lived in Dunedin, she knew there were people in need of company on Christmas Day and was a part of a group who opened their arms and celebrated with them.
"I did it for five years and loved it.
"Myself and others created a space for people to come and celebrate, have a feed and just spend it with others.
"Nobody should have to spend Christmas alone.
"When I overheard a lady talking to her kiddo in the shop that maybe they could grab a toy they wanted some other time, it really made me want to do something for local families who may be struggling."
"Times are tough nowadays, so if I can help, I will" Mrs Morris said.
She is aiming to make it social, with snacks and drinks, so people can feel comfortable coming in and finding gifts for their children.
"If people would like to swap for food or similar, I am happy to take them and drop the cans or non-perishables at the local food bank, too.
"If we can all help each other, then nobody misses out."
She has had many gifts donated already and if people are keen to drop toys off, they can visit the St John’s Balclutha station.
The donated gifts will be available for people on November 23 from 10am onward, inside the Mata-Au Gallery on the first floor of Te Pou Ō Mata Au — Clutha District War Memorial and Community Centre.
Kerri Field, of the Clutha Kids Charity, was another resource providing gifts for children over Christmas.
"I run bingo nights at the Greenfield Tavern in Clutha Valley throughout the year, which ultimately gives me the chance to buy pyjamas, toys and various gifts for children in the Clutha area," she said.
"I work with the police to figure out if anyone is in need and they pass them on.
"Last year I bought clothes, toys and even trampolines for kids, which was fantastic.
"It has been well received, and I’m hopeful we can get something for every kid in the area," she said.
"Nobody should miss out on Christmas.
"We have the local police station or people can check our Clutha Kids Charity Facebook page for information."
The Balclutha Round Table Spirit of Christmas Giving Tree will also be available at Ladybird Junction again.
It is in its 11th year and the tree aims to provide children with gifts bought by people in the community.
The giving tree will be advertised soon.
