Launch of 10th annual K-Mart Wishing Tree Project [Audio]

10/11/98

With Christmas less than seven weeks away, Family and Children's Services Minister Rhonda Parker today launched the 10th annual K-Mart Wishing Tree Project.

The project, which has provided more than one million presents to those in need around Australia over the last decade, hopes to collect more than the 180,000 gifts distributed last year.

"The project makes a major contribution to support families in our community and is a wonderful example of how the business sector, welfare groups and the public can work together to assist families," Mrs Parker said.

"Families form the basis of our community and strong families create strong communities.

"The work of groups such as K-Mart, the Salvation Army and Lifeline are important in adding what no Government can provide - the opportunity for people to support each other."

Presents are collected in K-Mart stores and distributed by the Salvation Army and Lifeline to families in need. Most presents cost from $10 to $20 and include gifts for parents and teenagers, as well as children.

"Everyone who provides a gift knows that K-Mart and the welfare groups involved give them directly to those in need," Mrs Parker said.

Media contact: Owen Cole, 9481 7810