G8 Education spreads Christmas joy through Hands of Hope toy drop

Families and staff from 65 G8 Education centres have donated more than 1800 toys to charity Hands of Hope, who will distribute them to children spending Christmas in hospital as part of their annual Christmas Toy Drop.

The donations began to roll in in November, with each of the centres placing a Christmas tree in their foyer where families were invited to leave gifts.  

At San Marino World of Learning centre manager Caterina Prohm was thrilled to see children and families getting into the spirit of giving, embracing the toy drive with gusto. 

“This is a great way for young children to learn about the importance of giving back and I was so delighted to see the level of enthusiasm among the children,” she said.

“Our educators are always looking for ways to teach the children in our care about the importance of community and this has been a fantastic exercise in doing just that – with some really tangible outcomes.”

“It’s really rewarding for everyone involved to see so many toys going to such a great cause. We love to get involved with the community like this and would also love to make our collaboration with Hands of Hope a regular thing.”

As well as toys, donations included educational items and other things for children to enjoy. 

Hands of Hope provides assistance to the people experiencing illness and disadvantage, and their annual Christmas Toy Drop is a highlight of the season. Last year, they distributed almost 3000 toys amongst 12 hospitals in the Western and South Western Sydney district.

Hands of Hope founder Joanne Georges said she was moved by the response to the appeal.

“The response we have had from the community has been remarkable,” she said.

“The involvement of various G8 services across Sydney has enabled Hands of Hope to reach 19 hospitals and health care services across Sydney.” 

Thanks to the support of G8 Hands of Hope have been able to reach an additional seven services than in 2022, putting “hundreds of extra smiles” on the faces of children who will spend Christmas in hospital.