Summer newsletter 2019

Coming together at Christmas

Program Manager Jenna Bottrell meets a lot of people who have experienced loneliness at Christmas.

Growing up in Broken Hill, Christmas was always a happy holiday for my family. We’d get together, eat a delicious lunch complete with staples like a roast and plum pudding and put on the paper hats from our Christmas crackers.

It was something I could count on each year and I loved spending time with my sisters, brother and extended family. With such happy memories, I have a hard time imagining how tough it must be for those who don’t have anyone to turn to.

Sadly, Christmas is a reminder for many that they lack the support system they desperately desire.

The Connections program that I help run in Broken Hill is one way you and Mission Australia are combatting loneliness – not just at Christmas, but all year long.

I’m so delighted to see that many people from the program, who would usually be alone at Christmas, have chosen to spend the day together.

Through programs like Connections, you’ve made a real difference in the lives of people in need – both mentally and physically.

As you read through this newsletter, I hope you are encouraged by the amazing changes you are making in so many lives. But I hope you are also inspired to keep looking after those in your community who might need a little extra love this Christmas.