Where to donate locally Christmas 2025
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With Christmas less than 24 hours away, why not give the gift of kindness this year by donating to one of Canberra’s local appeals?
Here we are. Once again, the year has flown by before our eyes, and December is here. With the festive season just around the corner, it is important to look back at those less fortunate than us and consider spreading a little Christmas cheer from our homes to others. What better way than donating to local Christmas appeals aiming to support those who need it most?
Here is a list of some organisations that are doing amazing work in our community and are seeking your help to make everyone’s Christmas a little merrier.
Barnardos Australia
This amazing organisation helps bring comfort and joy to kids who need it most. Once again, Barnardo’s is hosting a Christmas appeal, collecting toy donations through their website.
There are only 14 days left till Christmas, and they have only 14 per cent of the toys they need this year. For some kids, your generous donation may be the first Christmas gift they ever receive. Help them fill the gap and turn the children’s dreams into reality.
There are many forms of donations to choose from, ranging from gift cards for teenagers (which are in high demand) to toys, to simply donating money for the staff to choose what the kids need most. You are sure to find a form of donation that fits your preferences best.
GIVIT
Doing amazing work for the refugee community, GIVIT is hosting an appeal aimed at making someone’s Christmas a little merrier. With many members escaping from war-torn countries and terrorism, more support is needed than ever for them to get by. There are various forms of donations possible, including funding or purchasing gifts, and GIVIT is hoping to collect enough by Christmas for all of those in need. With the goal not close to being achieved so far, consider funding or donating an item whenever possible.
Australian Childhood Foundation
Did you know that 65 per cent of children in Australia have experienced neglect, abuse or have been exposed to domestic violence? If you’re hoping to find a donation opportunity that will support children for the rest of their lives, this might be the option for you.
Providing the kids with therapy teams helps them cope with trauma and allows them to branch out and begin to live life to the fullest. Either a one-time or a monthly donation will be greatly appreciated to help those who need it most.
Hundreds for Thousands
This one is a great community-driven campaign that supports families struggling this season throughout the Canberra region and beyond. Aimed at relieving the cost-of-living burden by providing $100 grocery vouchers for 1000 families who need them most, even a small contribution from you may be the one that makes a family feel a little brighter.
100s-for-thousands-25.raiselysite.com
Giving Machines
This Christmas, the Giving Machines are coming back to Canberra for a second year, bringing a fresh and effortless way to help the community. Each machine features five essential items chosen by local charities, from medical care to assistance for the homeless. With a range from $5 to $200, there is something for every budget.
Located in the lower ground food court in Canberra Centre until Saturday 27 December, the best part is you can simply walk up to a machine and choose the type and amount of donation you would like to give!
It’s that simple during Christmas shopping and all your donations go directly to all the partnering local charities.
Roundabout Canberra
With Roundabout Canberra, you can help spark joy for Canberra children, providing an opportunity to donate items that ensure dignity, belonging, and opportunity for the upcoming year. Any generous donation of safe, essential items, from sturdy prams to clothing and tiny socks, is greatly appreciated. Roundabout Canberra is aiming to collect 3,000 packs of joy and has only been able to collect 302 so far. Make sure to pitch in!
Lifeline Canberra Giving Tree
The Lifeline Canberra Giving Tree – located at Book Lovers Lane bookshop at the Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets – offers a simple but powerful way to give back this festive season. Instead of a traditional gift, Lifeline Canberra is encouraging the community to sponsor a call to their crisis support line, making a life-changing difference.
A donation of just $26 funds one vital call to 13 11 14, helping ensure that everyone in need of help has someone to turn to. It’s one of the most meaningful gifts you can give these holidays. Visit the Giving Tree at Book Lovers Lane or donate online.
Canberra Hospital Foundation Givemas
Givemas is another great way to spread some festive comfort cheer to patients and families spending Christmas in the hospital. The gifts kindly donated by you are given to a patient who has been in the hospital for a long time or who will be spending Christmas alone. This is an amazing initiative, ensuring no one feels forgotten this Christmas.
canberrahospitalfoundation.org.au
Vinnies Canberra/ Gouldburn Giving Tree
Many families are facing financial hardships this Christmas. By taking part in the Vinnies Christmas giving tree, you could be the person putting food on the table for Christmas or a gift under the tree.
This year, they’re asking for people to donate new and unwrapped Christmas gifts and non-perishable foods (with expiry at least three months away) to local collection points around Canberra.
Lost in the chaos of Christmas and no time to shop? No problem. On the Vinnies website, you can select gifts and donate directly to the organisation. Every donation matters.
No matter which wonderful organisation you decide to donate to, every form of help, no matter the size, will have a large impact. There is always an opportunity to lend a helping hand and make someone’s Christmas that much more magical. Happy holiday season!
