In the lead-up to Christmas, the Frank Montagnese Foundation partnered with Sunshine Bendigo to support its annual Christmas Toy Drive, funding the purchase of 80 gifts for local families.
This contribution was directed toward families experiencing financial pressure, ensuring children could receive a gift during a time of year that can be both meaningful and challenging for many households.
Why local delivery matters
Christmas support works best when it is delivered by organisations already embedded in their communities. Sunshine Bendigo has a long-standing connection to families across the region and a deep understanding of where support is most needed.
By working through a trusted local organisation, this donation was able to reach families efficiently, respectfully and with care. It also ensured that support was delivered in a way that upheld dignity, rather than drawing attention to hardship.
Practical support with real impact
The Christmas period often places added strain on families facing financial stress. Rising living costs, school holiday expenses and seasonal expectations can make an already difficult situation harder to manage.
Providing gifts through the Sunshine Bendigo Toy Drive helped ease that pressure in a tangible way. For children, it meant being included in a shared experience that many take for granted. For parents and carers, it offered relief during a period that can otherwise feel overwhelming.
While gifts may seem small in isolation, their impact is often felt far beyond the moment they are received. They contribute to a sense of belonging, care and recognition, values that sit at the heart of the Foundation’s work.
A community-led approach to giving
The Frank Montagnese Foundation focuses on supporting organisations that are best placed to deliver outcomes on the ground. Rather than duplicating services, the Foundation works alongside community partners who have the experience, relationships and local knowledge to make support count.
Sunshine Bendigo’s Christmas Toy Drive is a strong example of this approach. The organisation coordinates closely with families and service providers to ensure assistance is appropriate and reaches those who need it most.
By funding the purchase of gifts directly, the Foundation was able to support this work in a way that complemented existing community efforts.
Looking beyond the moment
While Christmas support addresses immediate needs, the Foundation remains focused on backing initiatives that contribute to longer-term wellbeing. Community connection, dignity and stability are critical foundations for positive outcomes, particularly for children and families.
Supporting initiatives like the Sunshine Bendigo Toy Drive reflects a broader commitment to practical, values-led support that recognises both short-term pressures and long-term impact.
With thanks to our community partners
The Frank Montagnese Foundation acknowledges Sunshine Bendigo for the care and commitment shown in delivering this support to local families. Frontline organisations play a vital role in strengthening communities, particularly during periods of heightened demand.
As the year comes to a close, the Foundation remains grateful for the partnerships that make this work possible and looks ahead to continuing to support initiatives that place people, dignity and care at the centre.
