This Christmas, four‑year‑old Ashton and seven‑year‑old Gabe collected an incredible 9,800 bottles and cans—enough to fill two shopping trolleys with toys for local families in need. What had begun as a way to promote recycling and earn some pocket money, quickly grew into an inspiring act of community spirit.

Anglicare’s Ashmont Community Resource Centre (ACRC) team was among the first to hear about the boys’ efforts. “Wagga was truly blessed by the generosity of Ashton and Gabe’s family,” said ACRC Facilitator Shannon Daly. “We were completely surprised and deeply grateful to be chosen as one of the places to receive their thoughtful gifts.”

Their mum, Jet, explained that the boys began collecting in October, spreading the word through their family Facebook page. They attached wagons to their bikes and rode around the neighbourhood gathering donated bottles and cans.

Jet was amazed by how quickly the community rallied behind them. “I thought they might earn about $25 a week,” she said, but the donations grew far beyond her expectations. That’s when she suggested they use a few weeks’ worth of earnings to buy toys for children in need—an idea the boys embraced straight away.

With the community’s support, their Christmas collections surged, culminating in their biggest haul yet: more than 9,800 cans and bottles.

Ashton, Gabe, and their sister Sophie then headed to the local shopping centre for a special shopping trip, choosing a wide range of toys to donate to the local police station and the ACRC’s Christmas Toy Drives. On Facebook, Jet shared why the ACRC was one of their chosen recipients: “We truly couldn’t think of a better place—the Centre does such incredible work for local families. We know these gifts are going to bring big smiles to kids in our community this Christmas!”

The boys’ efforts have since been celebrated across the region, with stories in the local newspaper and an interview on ABC Riverina. And they’re not slowing down. “If we’re still at it next Christmas, we might do a whole month of collecting!” Jet said.

We are incredibly impressed and grateful to Ashton, Gabe, Sophie, and their whole family. Their generosity brightened Christmas for families across the Wagga region and stands as a shining example of the true spirit of the season.

Visit the Ashmont Community Resource Centre page to learn more about Anglicare’s Community Hub model of care.