Free children's toys and food parcels have been gifted to struggling Newry families ahead of Christmas.
Christmas is seen as a magical time - but for many parents, the festive period means financial struggle and worry.
And that's why heart-warming partnerships held between Newry Mourne and Down District Council and Norbrook Pharmaceuticals can make a huge difference.
The local authority's Deputy Chairperson, Councillor Oonagh Magennis, visited the plant last week to thank staff for their generosity in donating toys and Christmas food hampers to local families in need
Building on the success of a similar project last year, the council and the local community and voluntary sector partnered with Norbrook Laboratories to provide 1,450 toys and food hampers to families across the district.
Norbrook staff gave up their time generously to make up the hampers which were distributed by a wide range of community and voluntary groups.
The toys and fresh food parcels will be handed out to those who need them most.
Cllr Magennis said the Covid-19 and increasing financial pressures had placed severe strain on family budgets this year.
She added: "I would like to express our thanks to Norbrook staff and to our Community Sector partners, who have collaborated and delivered parcels to those most in need across our community.
"This project demonstrates how the strong links between the council, the local business community and community and voluntary sector can make an important contribution to improving the lives of people in Newry, Mourne and Down.”
Denise Collins, HR Director Norbrook, said: “Our employees were delighted to give back to the community once again this year.
" We were amazed by the generosity of everyone who donated toys and food.
"Money raised through a festive bake sale was also used to purchase additional toys and food, enabling us to make a difference to even more families this year.
"Hundreds of employees also volunteered to make up the food hampers and wrap the toys, demonstrating the real spirit of Christmas.”
