Children in need will receive a helping hand from a local insurance company this Christmas.

Lancashire Insurance Company Limited has donated 35 food vouchers, worth $3,500, and 15 prescription gift cards, worth $1,500, to the Department of Child and Family Services.

The food vouchers will be used to support families who make emergency placements and children who are reintegrating with their families.

The company will also be donating food to Family Centre and the Eliza DoLittle Society, using money raised at their monthly staff meetings.

Elaine Whelan, chief executive of Lancashire, said: “We recognise that many are continuing to find it difficult during these challenging times.

“Our donation allows us to help ease some of the burden. Lancashire has always believed in helping those in need.

“The least we can do is to help those less fortunate than us at this time of year.”

Selena Simons, foster care coordinator at the Department of Child and Family Services, said: “We are grateful to the partnership that we have with Lancashire.

“These vouchers and prescription cards will help those that are struggling in these tough economic times.

“With approximately 20 per cent of our foster children having chronic medical conditions that require ongoing medication, these gift cards will greatly assist these children.”