When you give to the 2024 Christmas Appeal, you help families experiencing immense hardship feel love and community around them.
Families like Mel’s, who sadly will have an empty seat at their Christmas table this year.
“It will be our first Christmas without him,” Mel shared.
Earlier this year, Mel* lost her husband Phil* in a tragic accident, leaving her and their two boys, aged five and 12, devastated. Phil was a loving father, a prankster, and the main breadwinner. When he passed, Mel felt like their world had been torn apart.
With Mel only working part-time, finances quickly became a concern. Her employer granted leave without pay to allow her to grieve, but without Phil’s income, Mel was overwhelmed. She found it hard to cope with everyday tasks and couldn’t sleep, worrying about how to support her children both emotionally and financially.
A friend connected Mel with Lutheran Care, where she found the help, she desperately needed. Though apprehensive at first, Mel quickly felt welcomed and cared for by the team.
Lutheran Care provided Mel and her boys with counseling to support their mental health and emergency food relief to ease their immediate struggles.
“When I was handed that bag of essentials, I cried. The kindness and lack of judgement meant the world to me,” Mel said.
A Financial Counsellor also helped Mel organise her finances, liaise with Centrelink, cancel Phil’s subscriptions and navigate insurance paperwork. They even supported her in requesting a school fee waiver, which was granted, bringing significant relief.
As Christmas approaches, Mel is preparing for a bittersweet holiday without Phil, but thanks to Lutheran Care’s generous supporters, they will have a festive meal and gifts for the boys. Mel is now focused on budgeting and plans to give back by volunteering at Lutheran Care in the future.
“We’ll light a candle for Phil this Christmas,” Mel shared. “This isn’t going to stop us. We’re resilient, and we’ll make him proud.”
You are invited to make a donation in honour of a loved one you are missing this Christmas.
This Christmas, Lutheran Care will assist families such as Mel’s with food and gifts to bring some joy and lighten the load. Your gift will also fund and expand important programs to help more vulnerable families have a happier new year ahead.
*Names and images have been de-identified to protect clients’ privacy.
Lutheran Care
How to Donate
We provide a variety of donation options that may be relevant to you. If you have any queries, please contact our office on (08) 8269 9333.
Tax Deductibility
Tax Deductibility Every donation received is used to fund Lutheran Care services in SA and NT. All donations over $2 are tax deductible. If you opt in for regular giving, you will receive one tax deductible receipt at the end of the financial year.
Donate Online
Fill in a brief form with your details when you donate online. We accept Visa and MasterCard. You can pledge your donation to any of our appeals, or simply select 'where it's needed most'.
Bank Transfer
BSB: 325185
Account: 03815186
Acc Name: Lutheran Care
Regular Payments
Using the Direct Debit Form (above), you can elect to donate on a regular basis; monthly, quarterly, half-yearly or annually. We encourage you to pay annually as it helps to reduce our administration costs, ensuring even more funds reach those in desperate need.
Food Donations
Fresh produce, tinned goods and hygiene items can be donated directly to our Emergency Relief service located at 309-311 Prospect Rd, Blair Athol SA 5084.
A full list of food and other items currently needed can be found here.
Leave a Bequest
Many of our supporters choose to Leave a Bequest to Lutheran Care. It is a lasting gift that ensures the ongoing achievement of our shared vision.
Donate Your Birthday
Planning for your next birthday celebration? Ask for donations instead of gifts! Your friends and family can help to support families in need across SA and the NT...all because you've turned another year older. Simply let your friends know where to donate, or we can send you donation envelopes for your guests to fill out and send back to us. Contact us on (08) 8269 9333 or enquiries@lutherancare.org.au
In Memoriam Donations
We are so sorry for your loss. A donation to Lutheran Care in memory of your loved one is a special way to celebrate their life and allows their memory to live on through the children and families who visit us for support. For more information, please visit Honour a Loved One.
Cheque
Send a cheque with your Donation Form.
Lutheran Care
Changing Your Payment Option
You can change your method of payment anytime. Please phone us on (08) 8269 9333 during office hours to discuss your preferences.
Direct Debit
Fill, sign and return this Direct Debit Form to Lutheran Care.