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Churches, police unite for hamper drive

Melton’s Police Station has again received a generous delivery of community Christmas hampers thanks to a partnership with Sureway International Christian Ministries of Melton and Melton Christian Church.

The annual initiative now in its third year has grown in line with the needs of the Melton community.

Reverend Dr William Osagiede said the program began with the partnership between Melton Police Station and the congregation alone, but expanded last year when Melton Christian Church joined in on the efforts.

“There’s a need for it now more than ever before,” Reverend Osagiede said.

“We purchase the food, we buy everything ourselves and package it together. Our goal is to put a smile on people’s faces during this period and help with the cost of living – food is so expensive.”

Rev Osagiede said the churches had packaged more than 200 hampers this year and encouraged everyone who wished to assist to get involved.

“The world is becoming darker and darker every day – we want to shine the light of God by giving back and helping those in need,” he said.

Acting Sergeant and Neighbourhood Policing Co-ordinator Joanne Mutsearts said the Melton Neighbourhood Policing Team works in partnership with Sureway Church to help deliver the hampers to local families.

“It’s often really difficult for people to reach out and ask for help, and being able to hand over these small hampers lets you see firsthand the impact they have,” she said.

“This is a small step we can take to ease the community’s burden. The amazing generosity of the church in packaging over 200 hampers goes on to support some of the community who may be struggling at this time of the year. For this, local police are very grateful and thankful. ”

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