But volunteers at St Mark’s West Wollongong Church are doing their bit to bring Christmas joy to those in need.

They are participating in Anglicare’s Toys ‘n’ Tucker campaign to help families who’ve struggled all year –  have food on the table and toys under the tree this Christmas.

St Mark’s members will continue collecting food and new toys throughout December. These will be packed into special Christmas hampers for families across the Illawarra. 

Senior Minister Peter Hutchinson said participating in Toys ‘n’ Tucker made sense considering generosity was at the heart of his faith.

“We have a team of 20 to 30 people who are regularly cooking and serving food through our Monday night food kitchen. Up to 70 people come along for a hearty meal with dessert and loads bread and fruit to take home,’’ Mr Hutchinson said.

“We are excited about the opportunity to celebrate Christmas by sharing the Toys 'n' Tucker program with these friends who wouldn't normally be able to celebrate Christmas with the food and presents that most of us enjoy.’’

The minister warns the reality is that anyone “can be a few pay cheques away’’ from struggling financially.

“One day it could be me, or you,’’ Mr Hutchinson said.

“We don't know what struggles life will bring. We should treat people with the same level of compassion that we'd hope for if our situation was reversed.’’

Anglicare CEO Grant Millard said Christmas can be a rough time for the people who come to the organisation for support.

“We see people in desperate need throughout the year and that Christmas meal or presents many of us take for granted are luxuries they can ill afford,’’ Mr Millard said.

“Far from a time of joy, Christmas can be a time of stress, worry and quite often hunger for families who turn to us for help.

“Participating in Toys ‘n’ Tucker is a practical way people can help someone in need during this time and encourage them to keep going for another year.

“In 2015, about 100 tons of food and toys were donated which meant we could pack and deliver over 5000 hampers to people in need.’’

Call Anglicare on 132 622 or visit www.anglicare.org.au to  support the campaign.

Donations also accepted at 429 Crown St, Wollongong.