TAFE NSW Petersham early childhood education staff and students, Koori Curriculum, and Inner West Council have brought Christmas cheer to those who need it most, with the annual Koori Christmas Drive.

With the help of donations from local community, the Koori Christmas Drive saw hampers and gift packs donated to Glebe Youth Assist, Metro Assist, Kurunulla, St George Housing, female refuges, disadvantaged and vulnerable families throughout the Inner West, and several support agencies.

Made up of toys, food, and gifts, the hampers will provide children and families in need with a range of items to celebrate Christmas, which they would usually have to go without.

Koori Curriculum Director, Jessica Staines said, “The 2019 Koori Christmas Drive has been a huge success and thanks to the amazing support of the community we were able to send out over 100 hampers and 300 gift packs, all thanks to generous contributions.”

TAFE NSW Petersham Childhood Education Head Teacher, Deborah Zappia said the Koori Christmas Drive is for a wonderful cause.

“This is the third year that TAFE NSW Petersham has worked with Koori Curriculum to seek donations from early childhood services in the local area to support children and families in need.

“TAFE NSW has a range of connections to local employers in the early childhood education industry, who are always happy to donate to such a great cause.” said Ms Zappia,

This year Inner West Council, supported the Koori Christmas Drive working to get more community organisations involved in the drive.

“Inner West Council was proud to be able to assist TAFE NSW Petersham’s 2019 Christmas Drive,” said Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne.

“Our Aboriginal Programs Officer and Program Supervisor were on the spot, helping to source and sort donations, and deliver to various community members, social workers and agencies.

“I want to thank and congratulate everyone who offered a helping hand,” Mayor Byrne said.

Media contact: Emma Cawley, TAFE NSW Media Officer, emma.cawley1@tafensw.edu.au or 0412 478 415