For many, Christmas is an enjoyable time to spend with friends and family, celebrating and relaxing after a busy year. Unfortunately, Christmas can be a tough time for some – it may bring memories of past times (good and not so good), it may bring financial struggle, or it may be a time that some try to avoid altogether if they expect it will bring them sadness rather than joy. 

Year round, Rosies operates vans out on the street, sharing friendship with everyone who joins us. Throughout the Christmas and holiday periods, we keep our promise to our friends on the street – of having a safe space where they can go at regular times, in regular places. Recently, one of our friends shared with us, what it means to him when Rosies operates throughout the festive period. 

“It is very difficult to get support over the Christmas period – basically from November to February. Schools go on holiday, so the charity groups that are associated with them don’t stay open. Lots of people go away on holiday over Christmas; even some of the charity groups that are open throughout the rest of the year are closed over Christmas. I really appreciate Rosies being available over the Christmas months. All of us rely so much on Rosies around Christmas time and I don’t know what I would be able to eat if you weren’t here,” said a Brisbane City friend. 

At the Sunshine Coast, our branch coordinator Carolyn is busy organizing the Christmas party which is very much a patron (and volunteer!) favourite each year. 

There are many supporters who help to make this celebration possible, and Caloundra City Private School is just one! For several years now, at the end of their school year, students at CCPS have been getting together to donate non-perishable foods and hygiene products. We are ever so grateful for this wonderful support which goes towards our Christmas on the Street party. 

Thank you to Caloundra City Private School and everyone supporting us around Christmas time – it means so much to our friends on the street and we couldn’t do it without you!