More families reaching out for help as Mayor’s Christmas Appeal builds momentum

Many Townsville families are reaching out for support for the first time this Christmas, with St Vincent de Paul Queensland reporting growing demand from working households struggling with the cost of living.

This year's Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is supporting three organisations – St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland, Act for Kids and North Townsville Community Hub (NOTCH) – helping local families and individuals experiencing hardship during the festive season.

Local businesses are joining the community effort to support families experiencing hardship this Christmas, with Australia’s leading integrated engineering, construction and urban development business BMD Group supporting the Appeal as Platinum Sponsor of the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Gala.

St Vincent de Paul Society Townsville Executive Officer Sharon Nicholson welcomed the show of support at a time when demand was unlike anything seen in recent years.

“Last year we delivered 500 Christmas hampers and this year we’re aiming to exceed that considerably.

“We're seeing people who have never reached out for help before. Families are struggling to put food on the table, pay their electricity bills and cover the rent.

“Many are families with two working parents who still can't meet the everyday costs of raising children. They're doing everything they can, but still can't quite make ends meet, making it extremely difficult to provide a magical Christmas for their loved ones.

“The boost we’ll receive from the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal will directly support our Christmas Hamper Program and deliver more Christmas cheer to more local families.”

BMD Regional Manager - North Queensland and Northern Territory, Michael Peterson said supporting the Appeal was a natural extension of BMD’s long-standing connection to the Townsville community.

“BMD has been part of North Queensland for more than 30 years, working alongside Townsville City Council, local people and businesses to deliver infrastructure that supports the region’s growth,” Mr Peterson said.

“Our connection to Townsville extends well beyond the infrastructure we deliver. It’s about supporting the people and communities we work alongside, particularly when they need it most.

“With more families facing financial pressures, the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is an important opportunity for local businesses to come together and make a difference.

“We hope our support helps make Christmas a little easier for families who need it most and encourages others to get behind the Appeal.”

Mayor Nick Dametto said the Appeal was showcasing Townsville at its best.

“More of our fellow Townsville locals are reaching out for help for the first time, and that's exactly why this year’s Mayor’s Christmas Appeal matters,” Cr Dametto said.

“It’s also a challenging business environment, so I’m incredibly grateful to BMD for coming on board as our Platinum Sponsor and helping local families facing difficult times.

“This generosity and willingness to help others is one reason I love this city.

“Businesses, organisations and community leaders are getting behind the Appeal, and we’re already seeing public donations start to roll in.”

For those not in a position to donate, giving the gift of time is another meaningful way to support local families this Christmas.

“We certainly need and greatly appreciate the financial donations, but the support of volunteers is vital to ensure we can get help where it’s needed,” Ms Nicholson said.

“If you’re wondering how to help, why not consider volunteering? Even if it's just for one afternoon or a couple of hours, more hands make light work, and every extra volunteer means we're able to help more local families.”

For more information about volunteering at the St Vincent de Paul Society, visit a local Vinnies shop or contact the Townsville office on 4430 4002.

To donate or find out more about the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal or Mayor’s Christmas Charity Gala, visit our Mayor’s Christmas Appeal website.