"IT'S one of the best things we do as a group every year."

With those heartfelt words, The Morning Bulletin's general manager, Simon Irwin, launched APN's 2011 Adopt-A-Family for Christmas appeal.

It's the 16th year for the annual APN Newspaper appeal which helps out thousands of needy families at Christmas time by providing them with a basket of presents, food and thoughtful gifts.

Last year The Morning Bulletin Adopt-A-Family appeal assisted 120 families and Mr Irwin said there was a need to increase the number to 150 in 2011.

"We felt there was unmet need in 2010," Mr Irwin said. "We want to give people a Christmas to remember, not one to forget."

The list of district families to adopt has been identified by local charities and will run in The Morning Bulletin each Thursday from November 17, until all 150 have been assigned a donor.

Once you have decided which family to support, contact the applicable charity (see contacts this page).

The participating charities this year are Anglicare, UnitingCare (Lifeline) and St Vincent de Paul.

Mr Irwin thanked these groups for their ongoing support for Adopt-A-Family for Christmas and also the wonderful community work they do for the underprivileged and disadvantaged.

Adopt-A-Family

Ring nominated charity to adopt:

UnitingCare Community - Call 4930 7300

Anglicare - Call 4928 1858

St Vincent de Paul - Call 4928 8089

Check the paper each Thursday or online www.themorningbulletin.com.au/adoptafamily/ any time.

What the charities suggest for donors:

In addition to buying Christmas presents or a food hamper, consider what the family will need to survive throughout the next year.

Items such as cleaning product, school books and uniforms are really appreciated.

The best way to wrap the product is to put it in a reusable container or washing basket and cover with cellophane with the family reference number clearly marked on the top.