That’s what MacKillop Family Services and four other charities discovered as recipients in the 2025 Mayoress Christmas Gift Appeal.
Blacktown Lady Mayoress Norma Bunting had earlier given them a heads-up that the community would respond generously.
“It’s phenomenal, the support that the everyday person gives to this appeal,” she said.
Her confidence in the community’s response was well-placed. In December, Council staff hauled seven large bags of gifts into MacKillop Family Service’s Blacktown office.
MacKillop staff excitedly unpacked the bags to find plush toys, Lego sets, books, toy aeroplanes, tea sets and more for the children and young people in their care.
At the same time, the MacKillop Sydney office was also running its own gift appeal. This was promoted on Blacktown community broadcaster SWR99.9FM.
The Blacktown held a fundraiser, and instead of keeping the much-needed proceeds for themselves, chose to plough back into the community.
“We’d heard about your appeal and decided to give to the children in residential and foster care,” said Phil and Tracy Ackling, SWR’s volunteer events team.
They dropped in with their young children in tow, who delightedly presented MacKillop with SWR’s gift box.
When thanked for the presents and for the family effort, Tracy said that giving to the community was a way of life in their own home too.
“All the toys which the kids outgrow and which are in good condition are donated to local Blacktown hospitals with children’s units,” said Tracy.
It was further proof of the Blacktown community’s spirit of giving, even more pronounced at Christmas.
Blacktown Mayor Brad Bunting and his wife Norma thanked the community for their generosity.
“We received 4,500 gifts, brightening Christmas for many families doing it tough,” he said online. “Thank you to everyone who donated a gift. That is truly the spirit of Christmas.”
