Through the generosity of Australians, organisers of this year’s annual Christmas appeal hope to raise the money to support community services and programs delivered across the Uniting Network.

A few dollars could help women and children fleeing domestic violence, people seeking emergency relief or children and families in desperate situations.

This Christmas appeal is happening locally at Target in Parkes and officially launched in all Target stores across the country early this month.

Target and UnitingCare Australia have made it easy for Parkes residents to contribute by simply purchasing an appeal bauble for $1 or giving an unwrapped gift at Target.

Parkes UnitingCare coordinator Joan Mill said 2017 has been a really tough year for families facing issues of unemployment and increasing living costs.

“We really do rely on the generous people in our community to show compassion and support our appeal this Christmas,” she said.

The appeal runs until December 24 and has so far raised $235,021.

Target Australia managing director Guy Russo said the appeal supports those in our community who need it most at a very difficult time of year.

“The Target team is proud to be partnering with UnitingCare Australia again this year,” he said.

“This appeal helps such a vast range of families doing it tough in our community, and we feel privileged to be able to help by providing a place where Australians can give to others.”

In 2016 the appeal raised more than $1.2 million and helped support more than 45,000 Australian families.

This year organisers are aiming to reach more people who will struggle at Christmas without the generous support from all Australians.

Shoppers are encouraged to donate by purchasing a $1 appeal bauble at the checkout.

All proceeds will be donated to UnitingCare Australia to be distributed across the country.

For more information visit www.unitingcarechristmasappeal.com.au