Oxley High’s wishing tree ‘powerful beyond words’

The school’s Student Representative Council raised $400, then went shopping to hand pick a range of items.

SRC presidents Brooklyn Williams and Jasmine Webb said the money was raised through various events such as a milkshake and cupcake stall, and a “take your picture with Santa” booth.

“We bought toys for the younger kids, necessities for the adults and then food for everyone,” Jasmine said.

Tamworth Salvation Army captain Dean Clutterbuck said the initiative did more than just “teach students good morals and societal values”.

“For them to really understand the big difference it’s making in someone's life is huge,” Mr Clutterbuck said.

“The fact they’ve gone shopping, they haven't just given us money, so there is a lot of love and care taken in what they’ve selected.

“That’s powerful beyond words.”

Tamworth Uniting Church Reverend Chris Wright applaud the student’s “fantastic effort”.

“We’ve got over a hundred families who are now registered for gifts and hampers,” Rev Wright said.

“It would be hard to do that without stuff like this, it cost a fortune.

“This is really vital at this time of year, particularly on top of the drought.”

Both Mr Clutterbuck and Rev Wright said many people broke down in tear joy when they received a hamper or gift.

“It really does mean that much to them to know that someone is thinking of them,” Mr Clutterbuck said.