In the vibrant neighbourhood of inner-city Woolloomooloo, children live, play and learn alongside a melting pot of cultures, including some people experiencing homelessness or social isolation.

During the COVID-19 lockdowns of 2020 and with the world seemingly at a standstill, one family enrolled at the centre was struck by the impact the pandemic was having on the community of Wilcannia in north-western New South Wales.

With COVID cases in Wilcannia, the local school and only shop were closed, leaving residents with no access to basic items or educational resources. The family engaged with SDN Woolloomooloo Centre Director Christina, and together they coordinated donations from families across the centre, made into care packages which were shipped to Wilcannia Public School.

Following this experience, the team began wondering how they could make an impact locally. Children at the centre knew of the people sleeping rough under the bridge nearby, and conversations were happening about others who may be struggling more than they were. Christina soon got in touch with Wayside Chapel to see how they could contribute.

Wayside Chapel has been actively supporting people experiencing homelessness and social isolation for many years and welcomed SDN’s contribution to their Winter Appeal. Preschool children embraced the cause, creating collection boxes for the foyer and signs listing the donations needed, before sorting what came in.

After the collected items were sent to Wayside Chapel, Amanda (Community Educator at Wayside) visited the centre and explained to the children what a difference they had made. She spoke about the people who come to visit and the basic things like showering and eating a hot meal that they wouldn’t have if they didn’t have Wayside Chapel.

SDN Woolloomooloo now regularly supports Wayside Chapel and their various donation appeals. Children reflect on the impact of their giving, wondering how others with less than them will feel to receive a gift or a beautiful Christmas card. Children of all ages are involved, creating opportunities to consider the needs and minds of others, normalising giving as well as receiving, and promoting kindness, respect and generosity.

At SDN Woolloomooloo, children are encouraged to ask questions about what they notice and to think critically about what they view as fair or unfair. By being curious about the challenges being faced in their community, the children at the centre are developing their understanding of equity and social justice, and their potential for making a positive difference in people’s lives.