ChristmasChristmas time is fast approaching so our annual appeal to members to contribute small gifts such as books, clothing and toys for children whose families are currently residing in supported accommodation in Glebe is about to commence. We also accept personal care items for their parents, whether staying at Elsie Women’s and Childrens’ Refuge, Rainbow Lodge rehabilitation centre, Detour House or Kathleen York, as well as items for Glebe resident families associated with the PCYC Youth outreach programs and St John’s GAPP network.

Recently the Volunteers Coordinator at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse Hospital in Camperdown confirmed that their staff will again contribute to our seasonal initiative in support of fellow travellers in our community. Their wonderful response over the last two years has allowed us to reach so many more people who otherwise may have less Christmas largesse to enjoy.

I have requested that all the intended recipient services provide age/gender details of children and the number of adults who they are currently caring for to me by the end of October. When this information has been collected and collated I shall communicated this to Society members through a special President’s Update so that you will be able to tailor your gifts to match this year’s list.

I’d like to remind intending donors that gifts should not be wrapped, due to the need for the services to vet them for safety and appropriateness. I will collect donations between Friday 13 December and Tuesday 17 December. This may be through members delivering them to ‘Sewing for Good’ at the Glebe Town Hall between 10am and 1pm on 13 December, or to ‘Kitchen Starter Pack’ day at St Helen’s kitchen on 17 December or by making arrangements directly with me on 0401 505 657 to collect them from your home at a suitable time. We will also have a Giving Tree at our annual the Glebe Society Christmas celebration.

So do look out for the Update and I look forward to your assistance for this worthwhile appeal.

Janice Challinor
Convenor, Community Development Subcommittee