Food and gift support
Christmas — a time of joy and celebration, can be challenging, stressful and isolating if finances are tight.
If you are facing financial difficulties or having issues with stable housing, unsure if there’s enough food for Christmas, or don’t know how you will be able to afford presents for your kids — get in touch with us.
Your local Salvos centre and church may be able to support you with food, toys, gifts, vouchers and more.
Confirm your eligibility by reaching out to us.
The Salvation Army also provides emergency relief throughout the year for individuals and families who may be struggling, as well as case management and referral to other internal and external support.
If you’re facing financial debt or just need help managing your money better this festive season — and for the year ahead — please visit our financial assistance page for more info on how you can obtain support, contact details for your Salvos Phone Assistance Line, or to book a free and confidential conversation with a financial counsellor.
Frequently asked questions
If the thought of putting food on the table or spending money at Christmas, on even simple gifts for your children, is causing you overwhelming stress, reach out to your local Salvos.
We can see if you are eligible for a Christmas food hamper or gift assistance. You may also like to ask about our financial counselling programs to help you with money management or getting control of your debts so you can feel more financially confident heading into the new year.
Whenever possible, we want to give parents the dignity of choosing Christmas gifts for their own child among the purchased gifts and community donations. We do not wrap gifts for this reason. Some locations may have gift vouchers so parents can experience the joy of shopping for their child. All items are new and in good condition.
The Salvation Army is a charity with a depth of experience in helping provide a joyful and meaningful Christmas. We generally invite people to our services and centres to pick up food hampers and vouchers and choose toys and gifts in the days or even weeks before Christmas, so families are ready to celebrate and enjoy Christmas Day.
Don’t leave it too late, as many of our centres begin the process of compiling names and planning, well before Christmas Day. The sooner you get in touch with your local Salvos, the sooner we can help take the stress out of Christmas for you.
As well as offering food and gift support, many of our local Salvos host free Christmas meals, carols services and church services. We’d love to welcome you to one and share the gift of hope and connection with you! Visit our events.
If you would like more information about how you can help people who are struggling this Christmas, visit get involved this Christmas.
We know the current housing shortage, rent rises and pressures on homeowners are felt year-round — not just at Christmas. However, we would still like to offer you some joy to brighten your Christmas. Please contact your local Salvos centre and find out how we can help with vouchers, food or toys for Christmas.
If you would like longer-term financial assistance or other services, including homelessness support services, please visit our need help page, so you can have hope for a new beginning in 2025.