The Xmas Grotto was to create a way for families & people in the community to experience magic of Xmas without dipping into their pockets.
Wellington
The Christmas Grotto on Jackson Street has been delighting people of all ages for six years and is now facing an uncertain future.
Each year the historical police station in Petone is transformed into a Christmas wonderland and a place for people to immerse themselves in the magic of the festive season. Visiting the Grotto has become an annual tradition for many families and an activity that attracts people from all over the Wellington region and wider.
The original idea behind the Christmas Grotto was to create a way for families and people in the community to experience the magic of Christmas without dipping into their pockets. A place where people could bring their children to see Santa each year, participate in the treasure hunt and have fun family time. And it has grown from there!
It also became a place for people to give to those in need and spread some Christmas joy. Each year the Grotto features a room where people can donate gifts that are then distributed through local charities that support people in our community.
Creating an imaginatively themed space like this comes at an annual cost of approximately $50,000. In previous years this has been achieved through the generosity of one main contributor and the support of local businesses. Due to this year’s extraordinary challenges previous funding contributors are not all unable to support the Grotto which has left a $20,000 shortfall following a set-up cost adjustment.
Here is where we need the help from the wider Hutt Valley community. We are appealing to local businesses for contributions to save the Christmas Grotto and ensure it can continue to give and spark joy in our community. To take part contact Hellen at Jackson Street Programme.
Families and individuals can give their support by donating a koha through the GiveaLittle https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/christmas-grotto page.
Your support will help fund the creation of the Grotto space and the costs associated with running it. All donations are gratefully received and if you’re worried about whether you’re on Santa’s good list, this will surely get you there.
Hellen Swales - 027 528 6799
Funds are going toward building materials, staff wages, maintenance, Xmas activities for the Grotto, & theming the gifting room for Womens Refuge. Any funds leftover will go towards the treasure hunt, printing material, & postage for Santa letters.
Thank you so much for your support. Very much appreciated. Merry Christmas from the Staff at the JSP
Thank you so much for your support. Very much appreciated. Merry Christmas from the Staff at the JSP
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