General News
14 January, 2025
Rotary shared the gift of giving to those in need at Christmas
Rotary Club of Horsham East members, thinking of others
Rotary Club of Horsham East Club members donated toiletries and personal items at their Christmas dinner in December to be distributed to those in need by the Christian Emergency Food Centre in time to make a difference at Christmas.
Former president Penny Flynn initiated the project eight years ago, and it has remained a popular tradition with members, who purchased and donated the items instead of sharing Secret Santa gifts.
In partnership with Priceline Pharmacy in Horsham, the club presented $1500 worth of toiletries and personal care items to the Christian Emergency Food Centre for distribution.
Goods were collected by Club Members and matched by Priceline.
Reports show when budgets are stretched, personal care items are some of the first things people go without, in preference to buying food or paying utilities.
The club's contribution helped people in the community most affected by rising costs and budget restraints.
President of the Rotary Club of Horsham East, Terry Harris and Cobie McQueen, owner of Priceline Pharmacy, presented John Spehr from the Christian Emergency Food Centre with the items at the December dinner.
Club members also participated in their Christmas wrapping project at the Horsham Plaza, earning $1049 from the 326 presents they wrapped.
On behalf of the club, President Terry Harris thanked club member Tanya and the 23 members who spent almost 80 hours wrapping gifts.
"The club was also very grateful for the support from the Horsham Plaza.
"Some people might still be trying to get the sticky tape off some of those presents," he said.