THORNTON Public School staff have decided to skip their Kris Kringle gift exchange this year and instead donate to Carrie's Place Domestic Violence and Homelessness Services in East Maitland.
School business manager Amanda Wilson said 70 staff members' donations of non perishable foods, toys, books, toiletries and baby products covered two six-foot trestle tables.
They also donated 33 blankets, which were made by sewing together squares knitted by community members. This follows an earlier delivery of about 40 blankets.
"To know there's an organisation where women can go with the kids - we're all related, we're dealing with children every day here and we see a lot of trauma with children at school - everyone was happy to help."
She said the school would continue to support Carrie's Place in future.
