LOXTON Lights organisers brought some happiness to a group of young children when they presented a local preschool with a charitable cheque last week.
Each November for the past 23 years, the Loxton community Christmas tree display has been held in conjunction with the Loxton Lights festival for a three-week long stint.
While the event is free for members of the community, a gold coin donation is always appreciated by the Loxton Lights committee, who transfer those funds back into the Riverland as a sign of gratitude for the generosity, support and commitment locals show annually.
In the past, the committee has donated to projects and organisations such as Loxcare, Zonta Riverland and Palliative Care Barmera, and this year it has chosen for the 2019 funds to go to the Loxton Preschool Centre.
“This decision was put into action in 2001, and at this time in excess of $20,000 has been donated to many community cases,” said Dawn Fielke, Loxton Lights
committee member.
Consequently for 2019, the Loxton Pre-school is receiving $200 and the Loxton Lights $674.
“Our profits are not large, but it can be amazing how little things mount up,” Ms Fielke said.
Loxton Preschool Centre director Mandy James said the school was looking at putting the money towards some projects within the building.
“We are in the process of submitting plans and seeking approval to improve the front of our preschool by building a reception area, small group work area and office section,” she said.
“This will increase security and provide sufficient areas for us to conduct specific literacy and numeracy programmes.
“We are self-funding this development so the generous contribution from the Christmas tree group will be used towards bringing this project to fruition.”
On behalf of the committee, Ms Fielke expressed its sincere appreciation and thanks for the community’s continued interest and support over the many years.