Playford’s Give the Gift of Reading initiative has reached 10,000 book donations to AnglicareSA’s annual Christmas hampers, helping thousands of books to reach local vulnerable families in time for Christmas.

The milestone was celebrated at Playford’s Civic Centre Library this week, with Mayor Glenn Docherty officiating the handover of 1063 books to AnglicareSA to bring the donation tally to an astounding 10,134 books.

Each year, AnglicareSA’s Christmas Hamper is delivered to residents connected to the organisation and this year, more than 1000 food hampers have been delivered to families to help to ease the pressure of Christmas.

Hampers contain food, toys and books for Playford’s refugee or foster families or others experiencing a range of vulnerabilities, including homelessness and low income.

The initiative was established 13 years ago and has been embraced by the community to help promote reading among young people. Many residents jump at the opportunity to provide a special gift for families who require extra support throughout the festive season.

Mayor Glenn Docherty welcomes the milestone and is proud of our community’s ongoing commitment to the life-changing initiative.

“Words grow young minds and reading helps to expand young brains. I am so delighted to reach this inspiring milestone with our partner AnglicareSA,” Mayor Docherty said.

“The initiative is a reminder of why it is important to provide children a gift at Christmas which can connect, build and create something sustainable. This truly is the gift of reading.

“Literacy is fundamental and we know that for early brain development, literacy is very important. It expands the opportunities for learning, so we want to make sure we get books into the hands of all our city's young people so they can reach their full potential.”

AnglicareSA emergency assistance manager Astra Fleetwood is grateful for the long-term partnership with Playford and its positive impact within the community.

“These donations will go to Playford families which are connected to AnglicareSA and these books are an amazing surprise for these families. It really drills down into community helping community.” Ms Fleetwood said.

“The books do not just help fill our Christmas Hamper, they provide a gift which can be used over and over again. Books can take you anywhere in the world and I thank Playford for its commitment to helping us, help so many families.

Playford Library’s Book Bugs program attendee Lex Bremner brought her son Kashius, along for the book donation handover to gather with family and friends.

“The book donation celebration is a great reminder of the community coming together,” Ms Bremner said.

“We visit the library each Monday for Book Bugs because it is inclusive and fun. We really enjoy playing with the other children in a welcoming environment.

“The library offers many activities for children of all ages, so we are able to come along each week and all the children have something fun to do.”

The Give the Gift of Reading is an initiative started at the Playford Library and has seen multiple South Australian libraries adopt the project including in the areas of Marion, Victor Harbor, Norwood, Whyalla and more.