For the fourth year, Mission Australia and its corporate partner AGL are hosting a special Christmas party for families who have struggled with homelessness or other difficult issues during the year.

More than 50 children will get to meet Father Christmas and enjoy a day of feasting and fun at the AGL Christmas Party this Tuesday, December 19, from 11am -3pm.

“For many families, this time of year can be a real struggle,” Mission Australia spokesman Daniel Clements said.

“When you’re trying to set up a stable home for your children, and often having to deal with major challenges such as poverty, family breakdown, violence, drug and alcohol abuse, and mental health issues, events like Christmas can sometimes seem like another hurdle rather than something to celebrate.”

“Mission Australia is therefore very grateful for the fantastic party that AGL throws each year for our families. It’s a very welcome chance for everyone, especially for the children, to put aside their struggles and enjoy some real fun together.”

Children invited to the AGL Christmas Party are all part of Mission Australia’s Family Services program at The Parks in South Australia, which provides accommodation and support services for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and for unemployed people with significant issues impacting on their ability to work.

With parents, carers and others, they’ll enjoy a barbecue buffet lunch, lots of games (including sack races, three-legged races, tug-o-wars etc), and they will take home an individually selected gift from Santa and a Christmas hamper packed with festive goodies.

AGL General Manager, Sean Kelly, said the firm and its staff welcomed the chance to bring real cheer to less fortunate families at Christmas.

"We all welcome the opportunity to make a real difference in our local community,” Mr Kelly said. “It’s a fantastic day for everyone involved and brings home much of the meaning and spirit of Christmas."

Media please note.
Due to sensitivities of some families to being photographed or interviewed, could media please organise coverage by contacting: Chris Rann, Rann Communication on 8211 7771 or 0418 832 512