Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal 'lights up' Christmas for Aussie families

Australia’s largest Christmas gift appeal is calling on Aussies to help brighten the holiday season for more than 300,000 people in need.    

Now in its 27th year, the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal in partnership with The Salvation Army has collected more than six million gifts and will once again collect gifts and donations to assist those doing it tough. 

Kmart stores nationwide are busily setting up for the Appeal with the official launch on Monday 17 November. 

Kmart managing director, Guy Russo said he was proud of the long-standing history of the Appeal and the powerful tradition that it had become for many Australian families. “The longevity of this Appeal is testament to the Aussie spirit of supporting each other, especially at Christmas time. But we know that people are so busy, so we want to make it as easy as possible to donate – be it with a gift, online or while they are going through a register,” said Guy.

The Salvation Army’s Dr. Bruce Redman said Christmas can sometimes be a time when marginalised families feel the strain of not being able to afford something special for their loved ones.

“During December The Salvation Army assists three times more people than any other month due to the increased pressure on families across the holiday season. 

“With Kmart’s help, we provide both vouchers for people to buy items they desperately need and also gifts to help brighten Christmas day for families who would have otherwise gone without.  

“Each year we are delighted to see the Appeal continue to grow as the enormous generosity of communities across Australia never stops spreading the joy of Christmas to families less fortunate,” said Dr. Redman.

How to support the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal

How to give a gift
Simply purchase an appropriate gift and place it, with a tag attached (specifying details of age and gender) under the Wishing Tree located in all Kmart stores nationally. Gifts do not need to be purchased from Kmart. Gifts do not need to be wrapped.

Cash contributions
Drop cash in the collection box at any Kmart register or add a contribution to your transaction through our self-serve checkouts or manned registers. 

Donate online
You can make a donation online at www.kmart.com.au/wishingtree