Oxfam asks Christmas Shoppers to help raise $5 million for people living in poverty

General, Media Releases, Oxfam Shops, Oxfam Unwrapped, Shops & Fundraising article written on the 09 Dec 2007

Oxfam Australia is calling on Christmas shoppers to help raise $5 million for people living in poverty by purchasing a gift from its Oxfam Unwrapped catalogue. But they must hurry – there are only six days left to make a purchase with the guarantee that cards arrive in time for Christmas.

‘Our aim is to raise $5 million through Unwrapped this year,’ said Oxfam spokesperson, Leigh Stewart. ‘People from South Africa to East Timor have benefited from Unwrapped. The donations are vital to help poor people climb out of poverty,’ she added.
Some of the most popular gifts this year are school fees, clean water and eye health. Cattle manure is one of the more novel gifts and, surprisingly, is also a popular gift.
Shoppers love the idea that their gifts continue to benefit people throughout the year. Unwrapped gifts are also a favourite Kris Kringle present. People love the range of gifts, such as vegetable seeds for gardeners or sewing training for fashionistas.
‘Many shoppers have said that they enjoy their Christmas shopping so much more knowing that their gift is going somewhere that it is desperately needed,’ said Ms Stewart.
Oxfam Unwrapped would not be possible without a small army of volunteers who answer the phones taking orders from Christmas shoppers.
‘The commitment of our volunteers really blows me away,’ said Ms Stewart. ‘Many of them are students, who may not be able to splash out on gifts, but who make an especially valuable contribution.’
When you buy an Unwrapped gift, your donation funds the type of development work your item represents. For example, if you bought a lamb, your donation would go to support one of Oxfam’s agricultural programs. This makes sure that your donation has the biggest possible impact on the lives of people living in poverty.
Visit www.oxfamunwrapped.com.au to purchase a life changing gift or call for a catalogue on 1800 034 034.
For more information contact Melany Markham on 0407 515 559 or (03) 9289 9415.
Last minute shoppers will be able to order e-cards from www.oxfamunwrapped.com.au, or purchase cards from Oxfam Shops right up until the 24th December. For the location of your nearest shop visit www.oxfamshop.org.au/retail/