Launceston Community Christmas 2019

Whether financially struggling, looking for new friends, or simply wanting to be a part of a community event, the Launceston Community Christmas welcomed one and all.

City Mission chief executive Stephen Brown said it took six month of work to organise the mammoth effort, but that it was well worth it for the committee.

"This is our fourth year, and I must give the committee credit because they've really put a lot of work in to get it going," he said.

"It's a way of really joining in with the wider community, and bringing people from lots of different backgrounds in Launceston together, and we can sit down and share a meal together.

"It's a great day for community spirit and friendship - and there would be a lot of lonely people otherwise."

IN OTHER NEWS:

With a family of seven, Pascal Bukuru would find it difficult to be lonely.

But he said the Bukurus all attended the community lunch because it was a special day.

"It only happens once a year, and we could not miss this opportunity," he said.

"It's the community sense, feeling connected to everybody else - all these people, sitting together, for one purpose: celebrating."

The Launceston Community Christmas is put on by City Mission, St Vincent de Paul Society, Salvation Army, Launceston Benevolent Society and Catholic Care Tasmania.

We're raising funds for four Tasmanian charities as part of our Empty Stocking Appeal. Can you help?