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"Play Santa Claus": Christmas Campaign for Children in Poverty

The Samaritan Association and the Austrian Post want to highlight the ongoing Christmas campaign "Play Santa" as the Advent season begins. For several weeks now, people all over Austria can send gifts for children in poverty for free - supporting girls and boys who would otherwise go without at Christmas.

"Every fifth child in Austria is at risk of poverty and feels their situation particularly strongly around Christmas. This is exactly where our campaign comes in," emphasizes Reinhard Hundsmüller, Federal Managing Director of the Samaritan Association. "Together with many committed people, we want to give children, who often go without, a joyful Christmas."

A Growing Christmas Tradition

The campaign, which began in 2012, has become a fixed part of the Advent season for many. Last year, over 18,000 gifts were collected and distributed to children in difficult life situations.

"As the Austrian Post, we want to bring joy, warmth, and confidence to children and families at Christmas. That's why we are once again taking on the logistical implementation of this valuable campaign this year, ensuring that every gift arrives safely and on time. Especially during this time, a small gesture can be a great sign of hope," explains Walter Oblin, CEO of Austrian Post AG.

Free Shipping with the Post: How "Play Santa" Works:

- Get a gift worth around 20 to 40 euros and wrap it in a festive manner.

- For shipping, place the package along with a short info note (e.g., age indication) in a neutral packaging.

-Write "#TeamChristkind" visibly on the package or attach a free shipping label from the post office (www.post.at/geschenkpaket).

-Drop off the gift for free at a post office or with a postal partner by December 23, 2025.

The gifts will be distributed during the Christmas season by full-time and volunteer Samaritans as well as the Samaritan Youth to children from social institutions and families affected by poverty.

Participation also possible online

On shöpping.at, pre-assembled gift packages are available for selection. Additionally, the #TeamChristkind can be supported with a monetary donation.

All information: www.samariterbund.net/christkind

More on the topic of Christmas

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