The Hills Shire community has come together in the spirit of giving, donating over 2132 food items to the Mayors Christmas Appeal and Library Fine Amnesty.
Throughout November and December, Hills Shire Library members could return overdue books with their fines waived in exchange for non-perishable food donations, ranging from pasta to biscuits, puddings and long-life milk.
The initiative saw 164 long-overdue items, including a five-year overdue novel, returned and boxes of food, as well as $200 in gift cards collected across all library branches and the Council Chambers at Norwest.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne, praised the community’s generosity and the program’s impact.
“This initiative has been an incredible success, and I want to sincerely thank everyone who donated to help those doing it tough this Christmas,” Mayor Byrne said.
“All donations will support Anglicare’s Mobile Community Pantry, easing financial stress for families struggling with rising grocery costs.
“The response from our community has been heartwarming, and I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.”
