Buy a Christmas tree and help Oxfam to help others

Shops & Fundraising article written on the 09 Nov 2010

Melburnians who buy their Christmas tree from Oxfam this year can celebrate the festive season whilst also helping less fortunate communities around the world.

For almost 30 years, a team of dedicated volunteers have organised the sale of the Christmas trees last year raising over $120,000 for the international aid agency’s work around the world.

In the true spirit of Christmas, over 200 volunteers donate their time to organise the trees, Melbourne’s 4WD clubs donate their vehicles to transport them, and to ensure the smooth delivery of the trees to homes right around Melbourne.

The 1.75 metres high pine trees can be ordered by phone or online before Monday 29 November and will be home delivered free of charge to your door between December 4 – 7.

Brian Moran, who leads the effort and has been managing the project as a volunteer for 20 years, said Melbournians love the idea because it captures the spirit of the season.

“The festive season is about giving, and an Oxfam Christmas tree is a great way to give to poor communities.

“Families love waking up to the tree on Christmas morning knowing that it is helping support people in poverty around the world,” Mr Moran said.

Oxfam Australia spokesperson Leigh Stewart said the Christmas trees bring in much-needed funds to support Oxfam’s work around the world.

“The Christmas tree project is a wonderful volunteer initiative that helps communities right around the word.

“Buying an Oxfam Christmas tree means more funds for Oxfam’s programs in places like Mozambique, where we are working with people living in poverty and also HIV/AIDS preventive programs,” Ms Stewart said.

The freshly cut, specially grown pine Christmas trees are $65.00 with free delivery thrown in.

They can be ordered by calling 1800 034 034, visiting www.oxfam.org.au or by post or fax using the order form available at the website. The closing date for orders is Monday 29 November. Some late orders may be taken after this date subject to availability.

If you have a roof rack or trailer and would like to help with deliveries from Saturday December 4 to Tuesday December 7, or assist with processing orders, email enquire@oxfam.org.au

For media enquiries, or to interview Brian Moran or Leigh Stewart, please contact Charlotte Greig on 0404 111 919 or email Charlotteg@oxfam.org.au.