Casey Cardinia Libraries (CCL) is establishing “Forgiving Trees” at every branch in the lead up to the festive season.
Members of the community are encouraged to contribute items of food or unwrapped gifts for locals in need of a helping hand.
This year, CCL has partnered with WAYSS, Cranbourne and Casey North CISS, The 4Cs, Transit Outreach Service, Hampton Park Community House, Barry Plant Emerald and Emerald Community House to help those who need some extra support.
“CCL are really grateful for the opportunity to work with local charity partners to celebrate the spirit of giving with our community,” CCL CEO Chris Buckingham said.
“The Forgiving Tree is a living example of how libraries change lives.”
During the campaign, overdue, lost or damaged items may be returned with no penalty, in exchange for donated goods
Because CCL has not been collecting overdue fines from borrowers in 2018, the Forgiving Tree has also been opened up for everyone to make a contribution, even if they do not have any outstanding fines.
“Our community has responded so generously in the last couple of years. It makes a big difference for locals doing it tough,” Mr Buckingham said.
“This year we are accepting donations from everyone, even if they don’t have any lost or overdue items that need to be returned.”
The campaign runs from November 7 until Christmas Eve. All CCL branches will accept non-perishable food with intact packaging and best before dates in 2019. Christmas gifts should be new and unwrapped.
