Werribee Mercy Hospital has launched its annual Christmas Giving Tree appeal, inviting staff, visitors, and the wider community to donate gifts for patients and families doing it tough this festive season.
This year, the appeal has expanded beyond children’s wards to support anyone in the hospital’s care experiencing hardship, from new parents to older patients and everyone in between.
The initiative aims to spread joy and comfort to those who may find this time of year especially challenging.
Pastoral Care team member Justine Toki said each year, the team sees the Giving Tree make a real, positive impact.
“For many families, Christmas can be a financially stressful time,” Ms Toki said.
“A simple gift can bring comfort, dignity and a moment of relief to patients and families who might otherwise go without.”
Nurse unit manager of the paediatric ward Amanda Borg said the initiative can provide a light in the community.
“Last year, a local mum came in worried she wouldn’t be able to give her toddler anything for Christmas,” Ms Borg said.
“When our team was able to pass on a Giving Tree gift, you could see the stress lift. It is great to be able to support our community in a small way.”
Anyone – staff, visitors or locals – can take a card, use it as inspiration to buy and wrap a thoughtful gift, and return it to the Christmas Corner.
In the week before Christmas, Mercy’s Social Services, Pastoral Care and Aboriginal Liaison teams will ensure every donated gift reaches someone in our community doing it tough this season.
