This is the 14th year the DHB has been involved with the Kmart appeal at Palmerston North Hospital, which will run through until Friday 21 December.
Kmart’s appeal is associated with the Salvation Army, which helps distribute gifts and food to families in need.
The large Christmas tree at the front entrance to the hospital has been decked out with festive decorations and a large box is available for staff and visitors to donate gifts and non-perishable food items.
At Horowhenua Health Centre, staff and visitors are also welcome to donate gifts and food, which will be given to the Levin Salvation Army to distribute. The Levin appeal has started and will also finish on Friday 21 December.
Both new and pre-loved presents are greatly appreciated, however, any pre-loved gifts need to be in good condition.
There is no obligation to wrap presents but please feel free to donate wrapping paper.
The Salvation Army staff find it difficult to source presents for teenage boys aged 12 to 15 years, so any gifts suitable for this age group would be appreciated.
Staple, non-perishable food, such as cereals, rice, pasta, spreads, milk powder, flour, sugar, and tinned meat, fish, vegetables, and baby food are the most practical gifts to donate.
Packet or tinned soups, spaghetti and baked beans, Milo, coffee, tea bags, and drink sachets are other useful items. Toilet paper, cleaning products and toiletries like shampoos are also welcome, along with nappies and sanitary products.
Tinned or packet pet food – especially cat and dog food – are other welcome items. It would also be nice to consider donating some Christmas treats – Christmas cakes, sweets, and other Christmas goodies.