Zali Steggall MP urges community to donate toys and gifts to Vinnies' Christmas Appeal
16 December 2025
As Christmas nears, Federal Member for Warringah Zali Steggall is calling on the community to rally behind the annual Vinnies Christmas Appeal, urging donations of toys and gifts for men and women, to support families experiencing hardship.
In the wake of the horrific tragedy at Bondi, Steggall says the coming days are a time to show compassion and look after each other in whatever way we can.
Every year, Vinnies provides thousands of gifts and food hampers to people doing it tough. One in six Australian children live in poverty, and a recent survey commissioned by St Vincent de Paul Society shows two in five people across NSW are concerned about being able to provide food this festive season.
“Vinnies at Crows Nest has an incredible setup to help people this Christmas period, with an incredible crew of volunteers and lots of donations,” Steggall said during a visit to the store. “But we do need more because there are so many people in need at this time of year.”
“And the sooner donations come in, the better - because people coming in all the time for assistance this Christmas. Let’s make sure every child can experience the magic of a visit from Santa this year.”
Lauren Leahy of Vinnies Crows Nest said Christmas donations were already making a difference, but reiterated that more toys and adult gifts were urgently needed.
“We support the community around North Sydney, and we’ve also been asked to support the Koolewong community on the Central Coast affected by the bushfires. So we really need more toys to ensure we have enough for everyone.”
For those requiring assistance, Leahy said food and gifts can be collected on weekdays by appointment. “If you or someone in your family needs support, please give us a ring and we’ll find a time for you to come in.”
A customer collecting gifts said Vinnies was a crucial source of support at Christmas, and staff were always kind and accommodating. “Vinnies at Crows Nest have been very helpful to me over the past few years after I moved into the area. I don’t come here often, but especially at Christmas it’s a great help,” she said.
“You feel very accepted. One of the volunteers helped me pick the right gifts and I was very happy. I also took a cake. It’s fabulous, I love the initiative and I am just overwhelmed at the quality and quantity of goods to pick from.”
How to donate
Donations can be dropped at the rear of Vinnies at 60 Alexander Street, Crows Nest, from 10am to 3pm, Monday to Friday. Direct enquiries to [email protected].
How to collect food and gifts
Goods can be collected Monday to Friday by appointment. To arrange, call the store on (02) 9436 0725.
General support:
If you or someone you know needs support, Vinnies offers a range of compassionate and confidential services - don’t hesitate to reach out. Call 13 18 12
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