Residents and staff at Abbeyfield House in Mortlake have shown their admiration and thanks to Australia’s service men and women working to restore peace in Afghanistan.
Twenty-five care packages were sent to soldiers following a suggestion from one of the resident’s wives to reach out to Australian Defence Force troops overseas.
Acting lifestyle coordinator Melissa Worrall said magazines, books, biscuits, toiletries, snacks, Vegemite, Tim Tams, scarves, beanies and gloves were among the items sent.
“It has been such a nice project for our residents and it’s close to their hearts, with many having been to war themselves,” she said.
“We had a collection box for several weeks and lots of staff, residents and community members donated items and money.
“Our residents were involved in a bit of a production line to pack the 25 care packages and we just found out that soldiers have begun receiving them which is exciting.”
Ms Worrall said the initiative followed a Remembrance Day service at Abbeyfield House Mortlake.
“One of our resident’s wives had the idea and when we started talking about it the residents were really keen to get involved,” she said.
“They took great pride in making up the boxes and got a lot out of it. It’s wonderful that our residents stay so involved in the community.
“You could really see what it meant to them to support people who are going through what some of them have been through – serving the nation.”
Ms Worrall said the initiative had been so successful and rewarding that discussions were underway for it to become an annual program.
“It’s really up to the residents – if they want to do it again, then we will help them to do it again,” she said.
“In the lead up to Christmas, it was wonderful that Abbeyfield House Mortlake was able to show our service men and women how grateful we are for the sacrifices they make.”
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