A CANCER cooling cap, access to education and freedom from slavery were some of the gifts given by generous Redlanders this Christmas.
In the weeks leading up to December 25, markets and fundraisers took place across the city to raise money for various charitable organisations.
A Christmas market held at Redlands College raised more than $6000 for anti-slavery organisation International Justice Mission, more than twice what was raised by the same event in 2016.
Organisers Shannon O'Dell and Lindsey Leijen said they were thrilled by the turnout at the event.
"We're encouraged by all of the incredible feedback we received," Ms O'Dell said.
Following a festive tradition, the Mater Private Hospital Redland Auxiliary hosted a market selling clothing, jewellery, flowers and stocking filler items to raise money for Cleveland’s Mater Private Hospital.
Group spokeswoman Debra Marer said the event was very well-attended.
“We are putting the money raised towards a cancer cooling cap,” she said.
These caps, which cost around $50,000, help cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to keep their hair.
“Speaking as a woman, your hair is the last thing you want to lose,” Ms Marer said.
Redlands Evening VIEW club held a Christmas stall on December 7, raising money to support The Smith Family and the education of five underprivileged Australian children sponsored by the club.
“We have to find $4000 to support the children for a year,” VIEW club member Narelle Brown said.
“We put on two markets a year, and our Christmas market this year raised $1175.”
In November, local pooches gathered at the Redland Showground for Santa Paws at the Park, a festive dog market which raised money for Animal Welfare League Queensland.
Christmas drives were also run by local Coles and Woolworths stores, supporting cancer patients and food relief respectively.
Petbarn stores at Capalaba, Cleveland and Victoria Point sold Christmas decorations, raising money for the RSPCA.
