Homebase Youth Services is asking Great Lakes locals to get into the spirit of giving early by purchasing non-perishable food items and small toys for the less fortunate, as part of its annual Christmas food and toy drive.

Homebase Youth and Aboriginal Services in Tuncurry has traditionally held the Christmas food and toy drive to support clients who are doing it tough.

Most of the people assisted by the service are young families struggling to get by each day. 

Homebase manager Lisa Berry said the hampers really assisted those in the community who needed extra support over the holidays.

“We’ve always found that our community is so open and willing to provide support to those less fortunate, and what better way that to contribute to our drive,” she said.

Individuals, businesses and community groups can donate food, small toys and toiletries, especially such things such as tinned food, pasta, rice, toilet paper, nappies, small toys and other provisions. 

Donations can be dropped into the Homebase Youth and Aboriginal Services office at 1 Manning Street, Tuncurry.

Alternatively, a pick-up service can be arranged by calling Homebase on 6555 5622.