Give Joy

Brighten their day... and yours!

Is there any better feeling than knowing you've brightened another person's day? The spirit of Christmas is intertwined with the joy of giving. The good news is, there's many ways to give back to the community, friends and loved ones this season.

The City of Wollongong Giving Tree

Give joy this Christmas with a donation to The City of Wollongong Giving Tree. Each year, the Wollongong community contribute thousands of individual gifts and donations, bringing a smile to the faces of children and families in need. Anglicare and Saint Vincent de Paul, the motorcycle clubs of the Illawarra and Wollongong City Council come together to collect and distribute gifts in the lead up to Christmas.

Donate an unwrapped gift suitable for 0-16 year olds at Wollongong Central, or Wollongong Library. Donations are accepted until Sunday 4 December.

Gift a Meal or a Fresh Start

We're lucky to have several groups in the CBD who work tirelessly to support the homeless, and those in need. If you'd like to support or donate to these groups, reach out to:

• Wollongong Homeless Hub: A community centre supporting families and individuals who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness. Learn more.
• Need a Feed: Distributing meals and emergency food hampers throughout the Illawarra. You'll also spot their Need a Coffee van delivering a cuppa and a chat around Globe Lane and the city. Learn more.
• Kind Hearts Illawarra: A mobile service that visits Burelli Street and Maccabe Park each week, delivering hot meals, emergency clothing and blankets. Learn more.
• Fresh Start Trailer: A mobile laundry and shower trailer giving those in need a fresh start. Learn more.

Find the Perfect Gift

Create a magical Christmas morning, and watch your loved one's faces light up with the perfect gift. You'll be spoiled for choice with over 100 specialty retailers in the CBD, plus your favourite big brands including David Jones, Mecca, JB HiFi, JD Sports and H&M.

Browse through Wollongong Central Shopping Centre and Crown Street Mall, or discover unique hidden gems and local favourites around Keira, Crown and Kembla Streets.

Head to our Shopping page, or browse our tips to get you started: