BOQ Grabs the Reins to Help Disadvantaged Kids This Christmas

Tuesday, 01/11/2011

BOQ is taking control of Santa’s sleigh early this year to help The Smith Family collect thousands of new toys and books for disadvantaged children this Christmas as part of the non-profit’s national Toy and Book Appeal.

All BOQ branches nationally will act as a collection point for new toys and books donated by generous members of the local community throughout November.

One of Stuart Grimshaw’s first duties on day one as BOQ’s new Managing Director & CEO was to announce the Bank’s ongoing support of the appeal in 2011.

“Christmas is a special time of year for families and is especially exciting for kids of all ages, so it’s heart-breaking to think that some families simply can’t afford to give their children presents on Christmas Day – an experience many Australian families and kids may take for granted,” said Stuart.

“This year BOQ is hoping to help The Smith family deliver more than 14,500 Toy and Book Packs, with support from generous Australians.

“To make this happen, The Smith Family and BOQ are grabbing the sleigh reins off Santa eight weeks early to start collecting toys and books to make these packs possible.

“With our help, Santa will get a head start on the season so all Aussie kids can enjoy the magical experience of finding a present under the tree on Christmas morning.

“All people need to do is drop an unwrapped new toy or book into any BOQ branch during November and, with the generous support of Toll, whose fleet will add some grunt to the sleigh, we’ll deliver the toys to The Smith Family and they will put smiles on the faces of disadvantaged kids this Christmas.”

Dr Lisa O’Brien, CEO of The Smith Family said; “This year with the help once again of BOQ and caring Australians, The Smith Family will be able to help disadvantaged kids share in the joy of Christmas.

“We thank the Australian community for its commitment towards helping create a brighter Christmas and future for disadvantaged kids.”

In the week before Christmas the gifts will be collected from each BOQ branch and delivered to The Smith Family, whose volunteers will then deliver Toy and Book Packs to children who receive support from The Smith Family’s education, mentoring and vital life skills programs throughout the year. 

The Smith Family Toy and Book Appeal

Front Row (left to right): Natasha Navy, Sophie Navy, Seth Hunt, Tayla Hunt (all Smith Family supported children)
Back Row (left to right): Stuart Grimshaw (BOQ, MD & CEO), Sparky Navy (Smith Family supported child), Stephen Vines (The Smith Family, QLD GM), Jacob Hunt (Smith Family supported child)

About The Smith Family

The Smith Family is a national, independent children’s charity, helping disadvantaged Australian children and young people to get the most out of their education, so they can create better futures for themselves. For more information visit http://www.thesmithfamily.com.au/