Thanks a Million nominee supports foster children in need in Mildura

During one of the toughest years we’ve ever known, Rita Morris reached out to support Mildura’s residents most in need.

Rita Morris loves nothing better than sharing the spirit of Christmas.

For four years, the store services compliance officer at Woolworths Mildura Langtree has been lighting up the lives of foster children in her local community, encouraging her fellow employees to buy and donate Christmas presents to bring festive joy to families and smiles to young faces.

Each year, Ms Morris and around 10 team members donate up to 30 gifts through MASP (Mallee Accommodation and Support Program), a non-profit organisation that supports people in need in the Mildura area.

“At Christmas time there are a lot of children in foster care who don’t get gifts and don’t see their parents,” Ms Morris said. “In 2019 there was a father who had lost his job and become homeless so couldn’t get a gift for his daughter. He contacted MASP and she was able to have a Christmas present. That’s why we do it.”

Last year, Ms Morris, 44, also brought smiles to the faces of residents of MASP’s Vidovic House, which provides accommodation for adults with a learning disability. “It’s really nice as they don’t usually get gifts,” she said. “We’re hoping to do that again this year as well.”

Ms Morris’ generous spirit also extends to her colleagues at Woolworths Mildura Langtree, who last Christmas each received a small gift bag to thank them for their hard work during a demanding year coping with lockdowns and border closures.

Rita Morris, second from right, is store services compliance officer at Woolworths Mildura Langtree. Picture: supplied

“It was only a few days before Christmas that people could get permits to see family over the border, so it was a tough year for everyone,” she said.

“We did a little gift bag for about 150 team members. We were making our list and checking it twice to make sure everyone had one. The team loved it – it gave them a sense of appreciation.”

Now store manager Scott Cartwright has shown his appreciation by nominating Ms Morris for a Thanks a Million award.

“I actually thought it was an in-store award – I didn’t realise it was a national award so I’m actually shocked,” Ms Morris said.

“It’s amazing to be recognised, and hopefully it makes others want to donate or get involved.”

To nominate someone and say thanks, go to thanksamillion.net.au and they could receive a $200 Woolworths Gift Card.

Terms and conditions apply. For full terms and conditions, visit thanksamillion.net.au.