GOOD Samaritan Ms Elaine Richards of Salt Ash has spent her entire life giving back to the community, and this year is no different.

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Each year for the past few years Elaine has been collecting items from three local Anglican Churches, Holy Name in Mallabula, St Saviours in Williamtown, and St Francis in Medowie, to donate to the Samaritans in Broadmeadow.

Ms Richards told News Of The Area, “I’ve always done this kind of thing.”

“Back in the war I used to knit socks for the soldiers.”

The donations range from food and personal care items to toys for children of all ages.

Elaine added, “I am amazed by the generosity of people and the amount of items that have been donated.”

The Samaritans acknowledge that Christmas can be a tough time of year and open the doors of their Samaritans Christmas Assistance Centre located at Broadmeadow, Toronto, Cessnock, Gorokan, and Rutherford.

There are no geographical boundaries for the Emergency Relief Centres, however an appointment is necessary, as is a Centrelink Income Statement to collect gifts.

Along with this special service over the Christmas period, the Samaritans also offer year round services including those for children and family support, disability, domestic violence, mental health, and youth.

Ms Richards has certainly helped to brighten the festive season for those who are in need or struggling during this time of year.

By Julie MCKIMM