Northern beaches community engaged in the gift of giving this Christmas

Northern beaches community engaged in the gift of giving this Christmas

An initiative championed by Iolanda Trovatello and Simon Rawson of DiJones Pittwater sees hundreds of local school children participate in a gift appeal supporting Bear Cottage, Stewart House and Dalwood Spilstead.

Local real estate agent, Iolanda Trovatello of DiJones said the generosity and thoughtfulness of the local community are always so inspiring and appreciated.

“It is an absolute pleasure to facilitate the Christmas gift appeal with Elanora Heights Public School, Mona Vale Public School and Belrose Public School.

“The children and school communities never cease to amaze us with their willingness to give, and bounty of gifts – it is an incredible display of community spirit here on the beaches.

“For over 10 years my husband Simon and I have been involved in this appeal and we are on track to deliver close to 1,000 gifts this year to our nominated three organisations.

“The work Bear Cottage, Stewart House and Dalwood Spilstead do is so important to families beyond just our local community. They provide hope, support and happiness to children and their families in times of vulnerability and need,” she said

Community Relations Manager Bronwen Simmons of Bear Cottage said the support of appeals such as DiJones’ allows them to make Christmas a very special time of year.

“We rely on the generosity of the community and are open throughout Christmas time to ensure that families who need our care, receive it.

“Bear Cottage aims to make Christmas as memorable as possible for children with life-limiting conditions. This year due to COVID-19 we have reimagined our Christmas party and have embarked on a three-week journey to deliver presents to each of our 270 families across NSW.

“This mammoth task would not be possible without the support of those who have donated gifts in this appeal,” she said.

Every year 1,700 public school children from across NSW and the ACT will come for a 12-day stay at Stewart House, located on Curl Curl beach. During their stay, children are provided with health screenings for their eyes, ears and teeth with necessary referrals, engage in health and wellbeing activities and enjoy excursions.

“We rely on charitable donations to operate here on the northern beaches. We are extremely proud to be part of such a generous community who have supported our organisation for 90 years.” Fundraising Executive Aimee Palfreeman commented.

“This Christmas gift appeal allows us to provide gifts to children who may not have the opportunity to receive any and lets them enjoy the same festivities as their peers.

“The beneficiaries of these gifts come from public schools right across the state, including many children from here on the northern beaches.”

DiJones Pittwater is receiving gifts until Friday 18th December if you wish to get involved please contact Carly Dircks.