Winter is an especially tough time for families living in poverty – many can’t afford the basics like blankets and warm clothing.
We Care Connect, a charity that aims to break the barriers of childhood poverty, is providing crucial support to families in need through its annual Winter Warmers Appeal.
Cessnock Leagues Club is proudly supporting the appeal as a drop-off point; and is encouraging its members and the wider community to donate new and gently-used winter blankets, doonas and clothing at the club.
Besides blankets and doonas, other much-needed items include flannelette sheets and warm clothing for children aged 2-18 such as hoodies, trackies, thermals, slippers, Oodies, dressing gowns and flannelette PJs.
We Care Connect will rehome these essential items with families who need them most – including those affected by domestic violence, single parents, children at risk of homelessness or families living in extreme financial hardship.
We Care Connect began in 2016 with a small group of volunteers and one focus; that no child should be disadvantaged because of poverty.
“We partner with professional caseworkers from community centres and family support agencies, and help them to provide individual support packages tailored to each family’s needs; lovingly and carefully packed by our wonderful volunteer team,” We Care Connect partnerships coordinator Krista Lawler said.
“We receive gently-used but still delightful donations from the local community and match each donation to a vulnerable child to help break the barriers of poverty.
“Sadly, the latest data states that over 20,000 children (Census 2021 and ACOSS data) are living below the poverty line in the Hunter, with the latest SEIFA data showing over 3000 children are from the Cessnock area.
“When the local community donates those delightful everyday essentials and winter warmer items, they make a direct difference to the lives of local children in need and together, we can help to break the barriers of childhood disadvantage.”
Cessnock Hospitality Group community engagement manager Krystal Sellars said contributing to We Care Connect’s winter appeal aligns with the club’s commitment to support the local community, particularly those facing hardship.
“We recognise that winter can be a really challenging time for vulnerable families. We hope our members will get behind this worthy cause and give generously to those who are doing it tough,” she said.
The Winter Warmers Appeal will conclude on August 10, which coincides with Homelessness Week.
Picture: Cessnock Hospitality Group community engagement manager Krystal Sellars and We Care Connect partnerships coordinator Krista Lawler with the donation box for the Winter Warmers Appeal at Cessnock Leagues Club.