The Impact of Giving: How your Christmas Appeal donations have helped our Community Hubs

Janet*, a single mother of three and full-time student arrived at our Ashmont Community Resource Centre (ACRC) last month feeling isolated and sleep deprived. It was her first visit, and she came for the free community breakfast—but thanks to the generous support of donors like you—she found so much more.

Our community hubs, like the ACRC, are vital to the communities they serve. They offer emergency food relief, parenting support, play groups, community lunches, financial counselling, and cooking, crafting and gardening activities—all in one location, and all without judgment.

But at the heart of what our community hubs offer, is connection.

When Janet walked through the door carrying her two-month-old and ushering her two toddlers, she was welcomed by ACRC staff. Her children were provided a place to play and they were all fed a family-style meal, alongside other community members.

“We were able to have a nice chat that first day”, said Anglicare Case Manager Shannon. “Janet described her hardships without complaint and just a touch of humour.”

In addition to caring for her young children, and managing her house and life, Janet is completing an Accounts Administration course at TAFE NSW.  Juggling these commitments on a limited income is a constant challenge, and the ACRC team were happy to provide her with a food hamper during her first visit.

Later, when the team learned that Janet’s baby was struggling with feeding, they used their strong relationship with a local business to secure her a donated breast pump. This assistance freed up considerable time in her day, allowing her to study and focus more attention on her other children.

Now, Janet and her children have become regulars at the centre. They’ve made friends, joined in social activities, and continue to access emergency food relief when needed. They are hopeful for the future.

While government funding helps run some of ACRC programs, much of what Janet and others rely on has been made possible through the generosity of people like you. Your support goes beyond a one-time gift—it creates lasting change in the lives of families.

*Name changed and stock images used to protect identities.