The Rose Bay community of Sydney truly embodied the Christmas spirit last Friday, December 13th. The Greek Orthodox Parish of St George’s annual Christmas Hamper Appeal was a resounding success, exceeding their goal of 500 hampers by creating a phenomenal 540! Over 70 volunteers packed the church hall, buzzing with energy and festive cheer as they assembled the hampers filled with holiday treats and everyday essentials. This year’s effort more than doubled last year’s 250 hampers, a testament to the community’s growing generosity.
It was truly heartwarming to witness the outpouring of support. Parishioners, friends of St George, the Ladies Auxiliary Philoptohos, and even local businesses all chipped in, donating items or their time. It felt like the whole community came together to make this happen. One organiser, Nick Golfin, shared with Greek City Times, "The response was incredible. Seeing everyone working together to help those less fortunate – that's what Christmas is all about."
The hampers were thoughtfully packed with non-perishable foods, holiday goodies, and essential toiletries, ready to bring comfort and joy to those struggling during the holidays. Several organisations will distribute them across Sydney, including Feed the People at St Sophia in Surry Hills, A Touch of Kindness in Martin Place, the soup kitchen at St Constantine & St Helen in Newtown, Wayside Chapel in Bondi, and Sutherland Community Services. This ensures the hampers reach a wide range of people facing different challenges.
This year’s significant increase in hampers reflects greater need and is also a testament to the amazing organisation and dedication of the volunteers. Their careful planning and coordination made the whole process run smoothly and efficiently.
The Christmas Hamper Appeal is a wonderful reminder of the power of community. The Greek Orthodox Parish of St George has supported those in need and fostered a sense of unity and compassion within Rose Bay. It's a beautiful example of the true meaning of Christmas giving, sharing, and supporting one another and living proof of “people power.”
Feed the People: Helping Out in Sydney
Right in the middle of busy Sydney, St Sophia and Three Daughters Parish is doing something special: they're running Feed the People. Seeing so many people struggling around them, they felt they had to do something to help. It's their way of putting their faith into action.
Feed the People is about helping those less fortunate get back on their feet. Run by everyday people who want to give back, they offer hot meals, tea and coffee, clothes, toiletries, and other donated items. It's a place where people can get their basic needs met, no questions asked. Seeing how something so simple can make such a big difference is inspiring.
Soup Kitchen at St Constantine & St Helen in Newtown
The Soup Kitchen is open to people from all walks of life, races, and religions—it does not discriminate. It is open daily, rain, hail, or shine, for people looking for a clean, home-cooked meal. It is made possible by Father Nektarios and now Father Nicholas, together with the volunteers who unselfishly donate their time, food, drinks, and other resources to make all this possible.
A Touch of Kindness
A Touch of Kindness is a charity founded on the belief that true empowerment comes from breaking away from conventional charitable models. Our mission is to transcend boundaries and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those less fortunate, offering them aid and a genuine Touch of Love, Empathy, and Kindness.
Founded in 2022 by Con and Cathy, A Touch of Kindness seeks to bridge the gap between those who can give and those who need support. As the organization's visionary, Con embodies the spirit of giving, with a deep-rooted sense of generosity that defines his identity and drives the charity's work.
*All images supplied
