Christmas is set to be a whole lot brighter for local young people who have transitioned from homelessness into independent living and vulnerable families, thanks to sizable donations from Orange Ex-Services and Bathurst RSL Clubs.  

The Clubs have donated to Veritas House’s Christmas Appeal, making possible the purchase of almost 70 Christmas hampers, each filled to the brim with $110 worth of groceries, to be delivered to young people transitioning from homelessness or Out of Home Care into independent living and to vulnerable families across the Central West. 

“For most of the young people who will receive these hampers, Christmas was looking like a fairly lean affair; with the costs of living already so high, they certainly would not be able to afford Christmas treats like pudding and presents,” said Narelle Stocks, Veritas House Acting CEO. “Thanks to the generosity of the OESC and Bathurst RSL, we’re able to gift not only some essential items and fresh fruit and vegetables, but some special Christmas surprises too, to brighten their festive season considerably.” 

“Assisting to prepare the hampers will also be a lot of fun for our staff and our case workers are looking forward to the opportunity to deliver them to each of our clients and to see the smiles on their faces,” said Narelle.  “That’s what Christmas is all about and the generosity the Clubs have shown to Veritas, helping to bring smiles to the faces of local people doing it tough at this time of year, should be applauded.” 

Veritas has also been generously supported by VERTO, Big W Bathurst, 2BS/B-Rock, and Raine & Horne Bathurst and Central West residents through the donation of more than 200 gifts for young people who placed a wish on the Veritas House Christmas Wishing Trees. 

Veritas House is a not-for-profit organisation that was established in the Central West over 40 years ago and has grown to become one of the largest providers of foster care, youth homelessness and family support services in the region, supporting more than 900 children, young people and families each year.