The appeal calls on Auckland businesses and their staff to donate festive food treats, non-perishable food items, cash and presents for children and teenagers in need. The focus is on donations for 10 to 16 year old children who traditionally miss out on age-suitable presents in regular Christmas donation campaigns.

Urgent Couriers Managing Director Steve Bonnici says his company has delivered donation collection packs to a record number of businesses, schools and community groups this year and he is delighted to be able to support the appeal.

"Christmas is a family time and is very special for children. It means a huge amount to the team at Urgent Couriers to be able to help ensure Auckland children do not miss out on a Christmas present this year," Mr Bonnici says.

"It's great to see businesses supporting the appeal in record numbers and we are proud to do our part to boost its success."

Businesses and their staff are being encouraged to donate early this Christmas so that Auckland City Mission, with help from Urgent Couriers, can collect the donated gifts in the week beginning Monday 16 December and distribute them to families in time for Christmas Day.

Companies can still sign up online at www.aucklandcitymission.co.nz.

Auckland City Missioner Diane Robertson says the organisation does not have the resources to deliver the collection boxes themselves, so the assistance of Urgent Couriers has been invaluable.

"Urgent Couriers have been one of the mainstays of this appeal over recent years and they, along with all the businesses who have signed up, are doing an enormous amount to ensure that no Auckland child misses out on a little Christmas cheer this year.

"We've signed up almost 200 businesses, schools and community groups this year. They need to give generously over the next couple of weeks to help put smiles on the faces of thousands of children on Christmas morning."

Ends