On Wednesday, 19th November 2025, Our Morton volunteers gathered at the Anglicare Warehouse in Minchinbury for the Toys N Tucker Christmas Volunteer Day, a community initiative dedicated to bringing hope and joy to families in need. The warehouse quickly filled with energy as participants donned highvis vests and threw themselves into a busy day of sorting toys, packing food hampers, and preparing gifts for upcoming Gifting Day events. The atmosphere was festive yet focused, with teamwork and laughter carrying everyone through the steady flow of tasks.
Among the volunteers were Catherine Lawler from our Crows Nest office and Jelica Orasanin from our Riverwood office, who both gave their time to support the cause. Jelica reflected on the experience, saying it was a wonderful opportunity to give back, that she enjoyed the day very much, and looks forward to the next opportunity to volunteer again.
The Toys N Tucker program, run by Anglicare, has long been a lifeline for households facing financial hardship during the holiday season. Rising living costs mean Christmas can be a stressful time for many families, but the hampers prepared by volunteers ensure that parents can put food on the table and gifts under the tree without sacrificing essentials. For children, receiving a toy at Christmas is more than play – it’s a symbol of care and belonging. For parents, a food hamper means relief and the ability to celebrate without financial strain.
The work was physical and demanding, with boxes to lift, pallets to move, and packages to assemble, but the reward was clear. Thousands of hampers were prepared, each destined to brighten a household’s Christmas morning. The collective effort of volunteers transformed small gestures into profound acts of generosity, reinforcing the spirit of community and shared humanity.
As the holiday season approaches, the impact of Toys N Tucker will ripple across Sydney. Families will gather around tables filled with food, children will unwrap gifts with excitement, and the spirit of Christmas will shine brighter because of the dedication of those who gave their time. The day was a reminder that volunteering is one of the most valuable gifts of all, and that when people come together, they can make a real difference in the lives of others.
To learn more about the Asylum Seeker Centre or to get involved, visit https://www.anglicare.org.au/