Could this be Canberra's biggest Secret Santa?

GIVIT has partnered with Handmade Canberra for its contactless 2020 Christmas Appeal with a difference.

Through Handmade Canberra's 'A Very GIVIT Christmas' directory, big-hearted donors can purchase gifts starting from $20 from an Australian small business. These gifts will then be packaged up and sent, free of charge, to bushfire affected communities, from Coniola to Cobargo.

GIVIT Regional Manager Caroline Odgers said not even the intense bushfire session coupled with a global pandemic can phase Canberra Handmade's Christmas spirit.

"This year, thousands of households across the Southeast NSW region who have felt the brunt of bushfires and COVIDF-19 will be gifted thoughtful, Australian made, sustainable, quality presents."

"It's exciting to think this could be the biggest ever Secret Santa with almost 15,000 Canberrans already signed up to the Appeal," said Caroline.

This appeal also has great financial flow-on effects as many of the 120 stallholders selling upwards of 1,200 products are also from fire-affected regions, such as Guerilla Roasters in Moruya.

"Not so long ago we couldn't even access our coffee roastery due to fire and road closures," said Handmade stallholder and Head of Sales at Guerilla Roasters, Aymee Wise.

"But thanks to the nationwide compassion shown to our little business we are getting back on our feet, and we're stoked to be a part of the contactless Christmas Appeal."

Aymee reckons coffee is a fantastic gift to give. "Giving the gift of coffee is really about giving the gift of a chat and connection with a friend or loved one - the best gift of all!"

The Appeal runs from 15 October until 7 December 2020. To make sure your gift gets there in time for Christmas morning head to handmadecanberra.com.au/givit and place your order by 7 December 2020.

Looking for a workplace Secret Santa with a difference? Round up your workmates to be part of ‘A Very GIVIT Christmas’ and you’ll receive posters for your tearoom and gift tags for your Christmas tree. Contact act@givit.org.au to get involved.

ACT