Christmas is a time for giving, and this festive season has seen some of our staff lend a hand to assist some great causes.
Last month, a team of eager volunteers visited the Barnardos Children’s Family Centre in Penrith to help create wonderful Christmas gifts for those less fortunate. Throughout the year, Barnardos Australia has been collecting generous toy donations in preparation of distributing them to children and teenagers who may not otherwise have a present to open on Christmas day.
The Barnardos Children’s Family Centre in Penrith offers family support, out-of-home care and supported accommodation services for children, adolescents and their families. It is a vital service that helps keep families together when experiencing challenges and difficulties. As our team of volunteers arrived at the Centre, they were embraced by Barnardos staff who were thankful for the support and additional help to see these gifts prepared in time for Christmas.
As the day progressed, our staff members Ania, Rebecca, Chloe, and Alisha sorted through an amazing amount of toy donations, working efficiently with determination to make the most out of the day and help as much as they could during their time there. “It was such a privilege volunteering for the Christmas packing day at Barnados. Seeing the work they do for families in crisis was amazing and I’m so proud to work for an organisation that supports these programs and allows us to get involved. If there is another opportunity to volunteer, I will be putting my hand up.” – Alisha.
During a well-earned break, our volunteers were joined by Barnardos staff who shared stories about the families who would directly benefit from their efforts. Mel, Program Manager at the Centre shared stories of families who had struggled through difficult circumstances, and how the Christmas presents would make all the difference in bringing them a little bit of joy during the holiday season.
Motivated by these stories, our team worked hard to complete the task at hand, which resulted in hundreds of presents being prepared and ready for distribution, to be gifted to babies, children, and teens currently supported by Barnardos services.
“The volunteering opportunity at Barnardos was an eye-opening experience, realising what some of us take for granted as well as how tough the festive season can be for families going through hardship or other challenges. For me personally, there was a sense of purpose and fulfillment and I left feeling grateful for the opportunity to make a real difference.” – Chloe.
These toys will be delivered during the festive season to children and youth, some of whom have experienced abuse, neglect, poverty and homelessness, so that they have a chance to open a gift on Christmas Day.
The festive season is a busy time for Barnardos, a registered children’s charity focused on supporting vulnerable children and their families. This year, Barnardos is working even harder, aiming to give thousands of disadvantaged Australian children a gift for Christmas. If you are in a position to help support this amazing cause, please visit www.barnardos.org.au/get-involved/gift-for-kids.
