Supported by Orange Credit Union, people can place new wrapped or unwrapped gifts under the Christmas tree at the OCU branch on Summer Street in Orange, which will go to those in need across the Central Western Region to open on Christmas Day.

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OCU's Chief Executive Officer, Andrew de Graaff, said "giving back" to the community remains a big part of the fabric of the company,

"At this time of year and now more than ever, it is important to 'give back' to the community in any way we can and spread some Christmas cheer," Mr de Graaff said.

"It has been a particularly challenging year for our regional community coming out of drought, pandemic lockdowns, lingering effects of COVID-19 and now flooding.

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"The resilience of our community should be commended and we are grateful for the strong connections to help overcome these setbacks.

"We are pleased to offer our 288 Summer Street branch as a community collection point for new gifts and toys that will be donated to the Salvation Army and delivered to locals in need throughout the region".

OCU also announced a recent $34,000 contribution to the regional community through direct donations, which will include Community Support Grants, information seminars and holding financial education forums.

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The Christmas tree at the OCU branch will welcome gifts until the collection day on Monday, December 20, where presents will then be distributed by the Salvation Army to the families in need.

For those wrapping gifts, the Salvation Army have kindly asked that these items include a tag marked 'boy/girl' (or gender-neutral) and to attach an approximate age.

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