Where to volunteer on Christmas Day
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The best way to spread holiday cheer in Canberra on Christmas Day? Volunteering with a local charity.
Christmas is supposed to be a time of fun and wonder for families, but with the cost-of-living crisis impacting millions of Australians – including members of the Canberra community – it is also a time of hardship.
From the cost of presents to buying extra food and trying to keep up with all of the festivities, for many people this year looks a little less magical.
According to a recent report from the Salvation Army, over 10 million Australians are concerned about how they will afford Christmas this year, with one in ten worried their children will miss out on food. The report also states that over one million people won’t be speaking to their children about Christmas at all because they simply can’t afford it.
And with a predicted 1.7 million Australians reaching out to a charity this Christmas – half of them doing so for the first time – it’s a timely and heartbreaking reminder of what the festive season is truly about: community.
So, whether you have no plans on the day, you’re looking for something different to do or you’d like to do your part to help those in need, here are some local organisations where you can volunteer on Christmas Day. Just make sure to reach out to them beforehand to make sure they’re still accepting volunteers!
Have plans on the big day but still want to support those doing it tough this festive season? Here’s where you can donate locally. And don’t worry if you can’t find a chance to give back during the holidays – there’s still plenty you can do in the new year.
UnitingCare Kippax
Located in the heart of Holt in Belconnen, UnitingCare Kippax opens their doors to anyone who needs help. Providing food, assistance will bills, services and more, this year they’re holding a free community Christmas Day lunch. Always looking for extra elves to help out during the festive season, find out more here.
Hardwick Cres & Luke Street, Holt
St John’s Care
For over three decades, St John’s Care has been supporting the local community by providing emergency relief, case management and a range of other services for those doing it tough. Working in partnership with Anglicare, on Christmas Day they hold an open house lunch for the local community. Also seeking donated pantry items including rice, full cream milk, tinned tuna and cereal, find out more here.
45 Constitution Avenue, Reid
Vinnie’s Night Patrol
Vinnie’s Night Patrol operates every night of the year and Christmas is no exception. Providing light refreshments such as sandwiches, soup, biscuits, fruit, and drinks such as tea, coffee and milo as well as clothing, blankets, soap and more, they stop at four scheduled locations each night. Find out more here.
Various locations
Canberra Garran Donor Centre
Instead of volunteering time, how about donating some blood on Christmas Day? The Canberra Garran Donor Centre will be open from 7 am to 11 am this year so you can start your morning off doing some good. With medical emergencies tending to increase during the holiday season, it’s a great way to support the local hospitals and possibly even save a life. Book your appointment here.
3 Dann Close, Garran
