Lutheran Care launches its 2025 Christmas Appeal today, which is an important fundraiser for our work with some of the most vulnerable people in our local communities.

In the lead up to Christmas, our staff and volunteers at Lutheran Care see thousands of people in distress or who have fallen through the cracks.

We are there for those who are struggling to remain afloat financially and experiencing housing insecurity, as well as disadvantage and hardship.

This year for our Christmas Appeal, we are sharing the story of a client who was supported by our team in the Barossa Valley recently.

Thanks to Lutheran Care and our generous donors, Gina and her children went from homelessness and heartbreak to a Christmas they will remember forever.

After having to leave an unsafe home environment, Gina and her two kids were forced to live in a tent.

“Every morning I would pack up the tent, get the kids to school, find a location, wait for the kids to finish school, pick them up, go to that location, set up the tent, and that’s where we would pitch up for the night,” Gina told us.

Over the years, Gina sought help from many organisations. Too often, she was met with judgement and turned away without the support she desperately needed. Then she found her way to Lutheran Care.

“They welcomed me with open arms and I just broke down. They are some of the kindest people I’ve ever met. They just sat with me until I was ready to talk,” she said.

The Lutheran Care team gave the family Emergency Relief food, vouchers, and advice, as well as a second tent and warm sleeping bags. Gina said the extra tent was a gamechanger; it meant their belongings could be stored safely out of the weather. It was also a ‘play area’ for the children.

Thanks to Lutheran Care’s supporters, Christmas could also come to Gina’s little family. Her children’s faces lit up when they woke to presents under the tree, full plates on the table, and the simple magic of a Christmas morning many take for granted.

Eventually, with Lutheran Care’s support, Gina secured a job at a local caravan park. The job came with accommodation – a one-bedroom cabin. A front door, a room with carpet, proper beds for a good night’s rest, finally – it was like a dream come true.

Will you give a little kindness this Christmas?

This Christmas, through Emergency Relief, Christmas Hampers, counselling and other services, Lutheran Care will support families and individuals in crisis to feel hope, joy and care, at this special time of year.

To read more about Gina’s story and Lutheran Care’s Christmas Appeal, click here. Or make an online donation today.