Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek said local families are feeling the pinch and a growing number of children will go without presents this Christmas.

To help spread the Christmas cheer to children and families doing it tough, the City of Canterbury Bankstown is collecting donations for local charities and not-for-profit organisations through the Mayoral Toy Drive.

Mayor El-Hayek said the cost of living crisis is hurting many residents and the idea of buying gifts this Christmas will be overwhelming.

“The holiday season should be a time of joy, but for those doing it tough, it will be a time of great uncertainty,” Mayor El-Hayek said.

“It’s very clear that families in our community are struggling to put food on the table and a growing number of children will miss out on presents this year.”

The 2023 Mayoral Christmas Toy Donation Drive is accepting donations of new and unwrapped children’s toys and items at Bankstown and Campsie Customer Service Centres and Bankstown and Campsie Library and Knowledge Centres until Wednesday 13 December.

Items that will be accepted include new:

• Arts and craft supplies;

• Beach towels, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen;

• Toys, books and stationery; and

• Gift cards and vouchers.

“The holidays are a time for giving and I encourage everyone to spare a thought for those struggling to make ends meet,” Mayor El-Hayek said.

“A small donation to our Christmas Toy Drive could help put a smile on a child’s face this Christmas.”

Donations will go to Bankstown Community Resource Group, Chester Hill Neighbourhood Centre, Coolaburoo Neighbourhood Centre, Riverwood Community Centre and Prosper Project Australia, who will deliver them to needy children and families just in time for Christmas.

Last year, Council provided hundreds of toys and hampers to families doing it tough, thanks to supporters across the City.

For more details, visit cb.city/MayoralToyDrive or contact Council’s community development team at [email protected]