Local MPs are encouraging the community to donate new toys and books to children in care as part of Child Protection Week next month.
Dawesville MP Lisa Munday, Mandurah MP David Templeman and Murray-Wellington MP Robyn Clarke have pledged to use their offices as donation points for the remainder of August.
Child Protection Week runs from September 4-10 and aims to highlight the importance of keeping children safe and supported.
Ms. Munday said it was an initiative she was proud to support.
“All children, especially those in care, deserve to feel special, loved, valued and supported and this is one of the ways local residents can help them feel that way,” said she declared.
“I am proud to be part of National Child Protection Week and look forward to being able to deliver these donations to children in need.”
Donations of books and toys that encourage and support early learning, such as word and picture books, with an emphasis on letters and sounds, are encouraged for children under five.
School-age children need books with lots of pictures and easy to print, as well as joke and puzzle books for the upper primary group.
For those in high school, journals, notebooks, mindfulness coloring books, novels, and non-fiction books are recommended.
Books that promote connection with the local language group, which can be found at Mandurah QBD Books, are also encouraged in Peel District.
Mr Templeman said it was a great opportunity for the local community to help out.
“National Child Welfare Week aims to place the best interests of children and young people at the forefront of public attention,” he said.
“It is imperative that every child has access to what they need to lead a safe and healthy life free from the threats of violence, neglect and abuse. This includes the basics of toys, books and school supplies.
“Please donate to our local children in care and help us make them feel special.”
Donations can be dropped off at Ms Munday’s office at 1/633 Old Coast Road, Falcon, Mr Templeman’s office at U2/4 Sutton Street, Mandurah, or Ms Clarke’s office at Shop 1, Pinjarra Junction Shopping Centre, Pinjarra.
