Waterford Lions Club has launched its annual Christmas Hamper Appeal, aimed at supporting families and individuals experiencing financial difficulties over the festive period.

Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Liam Brazil joined Lions Club President Cathal Lowe at City Hall for the official launch of this year’s campaign.

The Christmas food appeal is one of the Lions Club’s longest-running projects and dates back to the 1980s.

Each December, Lions Clubs around Ireland collect food and donations for people experiencing hardship in their communities.

Across Ireland, more than €1 million worth of food hampers are provided to people in need through the initiative each Christmas.

The proceeds of this year’s Waterford appeal will go to St Vincent de Paul towards food which will be distributed through Waterford Food Bank.

Representatives from St. Vincent de Paul, Waterford Food Bank and Buíon Phortláirge were also present at the launch.

Waterford Lions Club says the appeal remains particularly important for households experiencing financial pressure at what can be an expensive time of year.

Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Liam Brazil has appealed to people in Waterford to support the campaign and help those struggling over Christmas.

Waterford Lions Club President Cathal Lowe also highlighted the number of people who continue to find themselves caught in difficult financial circumstances.

The campaign will continue in the run-up to Christmas, with donations helping to support the distribution of food locally.