As part of National Volunteering Week, running from 18 May 2020 to 24 May 2020, Cumberland City Council will shine a spotlight on volunteers making a difference to the community.
Mayor of Cumberland City Council, Steve Christou, commends the work of volunteers across all organisations and says they are a vital part of our community.
“It is organisations and people like these which provide a helping hand to those in need that make a difference to our community,” Mayor Christou said. “Thank you for your efforts.”
Guildford local, Jasmine Issa, is the founder of Project Generosity, a not-for-profit organisation which aims to create and deliver comfort boxes to those doing it tough.
Jasmine’s first comfort box was put together with community donations for a family whose child was battling a fatal illness.
“Baby Yanis passed away just before the comfort box was delivered,” Jasmine said.
“His mother and I became close after my son was born with a disability. That’s how Project Generosity was born… to pay tribute to Yanis and those who are struggling.”
With the impacts of COVID-19, Jasmine now provides ‘iso birthday boxes’ and essential packages to vulnerable communities.
Other organisations providing Emergency Care Packages include AusRelief, a local charity group who partnered with Cumberland City Council to identify and support vulnerable communities.
AusRelief’s Volunteer Coordinator, Mona Afchal, says volunteers are the backbone of organisations without which none of this would be possible.
“I have a group of about sixty volunteers that range from teachers, parents, students and families,” Mona said.
“We have been putting together care packs for refugees, the elderly, homeless people, you name it.
“Many volunteers have full-time jobs outside of volunteering but make giving back a priority.”
For more information on Council’s activities for National Volunteer Week visit www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au