Premier doubles State donation to the Smith Family Christmas Appeal

Premier Anna Bligh was joined by the Moreton Bay College Junior Choir today as she officially launched the Smith Family’s 2008 Christmas Appeal at Parliament House and doubled the state’s contribution from $50,000 to $100,000.

Presenting the cheque to The Smith Family’s Executive Director Paul HendersonMs Bligh said the annual Christmas Appeal was aimed at ensuring that every Queensland family has a Christmas to remember.

“In these tough financial times it is important that we help families and children who are experiencing severe financial hardship, especially in the lead up to Christmas,” said the Premier.

“The Smith Family Appeal distributes hampers and toy and book gift packs to some of our most needy children over the festive season.

“But the money raised will work all year round and contribute to education programs for disadvantaged children such as its Learning for Life program.

“As we have outlined in Toward Q2 this government believes that education is the key to a better life for all of our children and the work of The Smith Family Appeal contributes to our vision of a strong and fair Queensland.”

The Smith Family currently supports 5,575 Queensland children on its learning for life suite of programs.

This Christmas the charity will provide more than 1,800 Christmas hampers to ensure disadvantaged families can come together on Christmas day and enjoy a festive lunch.

Volunteers will also distribute 6,300 toy and book gift packs to kids across Queensland.

“This year The Smith Family Christmas Appeal is aiming to raise $550,000 in Queensland and the $100,000 will certainly kick start that,” said the Premier.

“I appreciate that many Queensland families will be doing it tough this Christmas but I know we are a generous state and I encourage all Queenslanders to dig deep and make a donation so the The Smith Family can continue their great work.”

To donate to the appeal visit www.thesmithfamily.com.au of free call 1800 024 069.

Premier’s contact: 32244500