This Christmas, Te Ao Mārama – Tauranga City Libraries and the Mount Maunganui Lions are inviting the community to turn small acts of kindness into big memories for local families doing it tough.

For more than a decade, the Make a Child Smile campaign has been a source of Christmas joy for thousands of children across Tauranga, ensuring that every child attending the annual community Christmas dinner left with a gift chosen just for them. This year, the need is greater than ever.

“Every toy donated is more than just a present, it’s a memory for a child that will last a lifetime,” Te Ao Mārama – Tauranga City Libraries library assistant Daniel Petersen said.

“Christmas is so special. I reckon I could remember every single Christmas present I ever got as a child.”

The campaign is calling for unwrapped gifts for children and teenagers, which will be distributed at the community Christmas dinner on Tuesday, December 16.

Families attending the dinner have been identified with the help of local support networks, including Plunket, to ensure donations reach those who needed them most.

Brenda Anderson, of Mount Maunganui Lions, said the generosity of locals never failed to amaze her.

“We’ve seen incredible kindness and imagination over the years, and we’re hoping to see that magic again.

“Every gift helps us make sure no child leaves empty-handed.”

This year, Anderson and Petersen are emphasising the different needs of families identified and calling for a variety of donations.

Some children love art supplies. Some want something sporty. Some want something comforting. And some teens – often the hardest to buy for – light up at the sight of vouchers, accessories or small self-care items.

With the cost of living continuing to bite, many families face a Christmas without the basics, let alone gifts.

This year’s campaign is about more than toys, it is about providing hope and creating memories that last.

To donate your unwrapped gifts for children and teenagers, drop them off at Te Ao Mārama – Tauranga City Libraries location by Friday, December 12 (late donations are always welcome).

-Supplied Content