Young Academics collaborate with Westmead Children’s Hospital and the Bulldogs

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) provider Young Academics has teamed up with NRL team the Canterbury Bulldogs to bring Christmas cheer to children through the Westmead Children’s Hospital. 

Using the strength of its network, all Young Academics services have been collecting toys donated by families to bring joy to children who are in hospital over the Christmas period, combining the power of sports, community and compassion. 

Bulldogs’ players Jacob Kiraz, Liam Knight and Jeral Skelton joined with Young Academics staff recently to deliver the first wave of toy donations directly to Westmead Children’s Hospital staff and patients. 

The Bulldogs are proudly supporting Young Academics in this initiative by joining forces to spread awareness and encourage fans to participate in the Toy Drive. Young Academics will open their doors to invite families, staff, and local partners to join hands and contribute new toys suitable for children of various ages. 

The joint venture underscores both Young Academics’ and the Bulldogs’ commitment to community engagement and giving back.

 “We believe that by coming together as a community, we can make an impact and create positive, lasting memories for these children. Through this joint venture, we aim to create a ripple effect of positivity and compassion within our community,” said James Kazzi, Young Academics Managing Director.

Westmead Children’s Hospital will facilitate the distribution of donated toys to ensure they reach those who need them most. The collective goal is to bring smiles to the faces of young children, offering them comfort and a sense of joy during the Christmas period.

“We want to express our gratitude to the Young Academics team, families, and communities for their active participation in the Toy Drive. Every contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference in brightening a child’s day,” Mr Kazzi added. 

As the three organisations come together to encourage a small act of generosity through the Christmas Toy Drive, they hope to demonstrate the incredible impact that collaboration and kindness can have on the lives of children facing health challenges. 

To contribute, community members are asked to please get in contact with their local Young Academics Early Learning Centre. More information can be found here.