Shire of Broome launch Christmas food drive for participants of its youth program, A Sporting Chance

As Christmas preparations begin, The Shire of Broome have launched a food drive to create and gift Christmas hampers to young participants of its youth diversionary program, A Sporting Chance.

Locals and businesses are invited to donate non-perishable food times, Christmas treats and small gifts to the Shire Administration Building and Broome Public Library until December 15.

Coles in Chinatown will also be accepting donations until the end of November.

Earlier this year, the Shire launched A Sporting Chance as one of the actions from the Shire’s Youth Plan 2021-2025 to address issues related to juvenile crime and provide a safe space for young people to participate in activities.

Running on Friday nights at the Broome Recreation and Aquatic Centre, the program offers sporting and creative activities, a warm meal and access to youth services to primarily at-risk youth but also extends the invitation to children aged five to 18.

Shire of Broome President Chris Mitchell said the Christmas Food Drive is a valuable extension of A Sporting Chance that provides to families in need with pantry staples and celebratory items over the holiday period.

“Some of the kids in the program won’t be in a position to have a Christmas meal and give or receive gifts,” Cr Mitchell said.

“Donating to the program will help ease the pressure for the families during this time.

“When the kids see what the public has gifted them it will help them feel more connected to the community.”

Mr Mitchell thanked the community for the generous donations that have already been received.

“It is uplifting to see the community come together to support Broome’s disadvantaged families, especially during the holidays,” he said.

Non-perishable items and Christmas treats include tinned food, long-life milk, pasta, rice and oil, with Christmas crackers, lollies, pudding and chips also accepted.