How to give back to those who need it most this Christmas

Give to those in need this Christmas with the Wayside Chapel Christmas Day lunch and Street Party.

Wayside Chapel in Sydney is hosting its annual Christmas lunch and Street Party to help combat loneliness and hunger among the homeless this festive season. You can be part of the movement by showing up, helping out or making a donation to those who need it most this year. And it’ll cost you less than $30.

Everyone deserves to be in good company come Christmas time.

Nobody should feel hungry or alone on Christmas. Yet this is the reality every year for hundreds of people suffering from homelessness in Australia.

Wayside Chapel aims to help the homeless community and those who have found themselves in a state of social isolation. The charity and parish mission of the Uniting Church in Australia, based in Sydney’s Potts Point, supplies around 1700 meals every week. However, this year demand is especially high. But you can help.

Wayside Chapel is urging Aussies to support people with nowhere to go this festive season by simply ‘Donating a Plate’. By contributing just $27, you will directly support the Wayside Street Party, a free Christmas lunch for those experiencing homelessness this Christmas.

Help spread the Christmas cheer to those in need this festive season.

The event offers people a place to eat a hot meal, rest and celebrate Christmas in good company, as we all deserve to do.

“Alleviating loneliness and disadvantage is more important at this time of year than ever,” said Reverend Jon Owen, pastor and CEO of Wayside Chapel.

“We are going to show people that they are loved and not forgotten, because no one should go hungry or be alone at Christmas. But we need the public’s help.”

The Wayside Street Party means nobody has to be alone this Christmas.

The charity aimed to raise $1.1 million by 25 December, and while this goal has been achieved, there is still room to donate. Money is still needed to keep the kitchens going and support services running to help those who need a bit of extra love this Christmas.

If you can’t afford a monetary donation but are still keen to give back this Christmas, there are plenty of ways you can do so.

1. Visit an op-shop

Op shops are the perfect place to find unique gifts for loved ones. From one-of-a-kind pieces of clothing to ceramics, blankets, toys and books, there’s plenty to choose from.

Run purely on donations by volunteers, your spending goes directly to whatever charity the op-shop is open under. A few classics include Wayside itself, as well as Vinnies, Salvation Army and Anglicare.

Check out your local op-shop for unique gifts. (Image: Megan Lee)

2. Volunteer your time

Ask anyone what their most valued asset is and many people will say time. That’s why donating some of yours to help out a charity or not-for-profit is one of the best ways to give back this Christmas.

Whether you choose to serve lunch with Refettorio OzHarvest, become a Gig Buddies friend or help out in the veggie garden for Rough Edges, your time will be greatly appreciated.

Serve up a hot lunch or dinner for those in need.

3. Donate toys for kids

Many young people aren’t lucky enough to receive a visit from Santa on Christmas, especially sick kids. Make somebody’s day this Christmas by dropping off donated toys at your local hospital.

And don’t worry, there can never be too many. Toys are also greatly valued throughout the year on holidays, birthdays and other milestones.

Donate a box of toys for sick children this Christmas.

4. Put together a care package

If you have spare toothbrushes, hairbrushes, sanitary items and other toiletries lying around unopened, gather them up and drop them off at your local women’s shelter this Christmas. Small donations can go a long way and you may help someone feel a bit more comfortable over the holidays.

Put together a care package for your local women’s shelter.