Christmas comes early at Western Sydney University, thanks to Chancellor’s Christmas Toy Appeal

He’s making a list; he’s checking it twice. Western Sydney University Chancellor, Professor Peter Shergold AC, pictured with Monica Purcell from Nepean Community and Neighbourhood Services; Eva Kovacevic from Liverpool Neighbourhood Connections, and Davyn De Bruyn from Parramatta Mission.

Western Sydney University has once again held its annual Chancellor’s Christmas Toy Appeal in support of vulnerable families and children across the Greater Western Sydney region this holiday season.

With over 250 gifts generously donated by the University staff and student community, the Appeal will help many families in need this Christmas, particularly those who have experienced ongoing hardship and uncertainty due to COVID-19 this year.

In its ninth consecutive year, Western has proudly partnered with three western Sydney charities and community groups to deliver Christmas cheer to many disadvantaged and vulnerable children and their families.

Liverpool Neighbourhood Connections (opens in a new window) runs over 60 programs for the Liverpool community and surrounding suburbs including playgroups, vacation care programs, and homework support groups.

Nepean Community and Neighbourhood Services (opens in a new window) are the largest provider of Indigenous services for children in the Penrith region providing a range of family programs such as early intervention and social inclusion.  

Parramatta Mission (opens in a new window) work closely with the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in the Parramatta area. Their mission is to help people and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, and support families facing crisis or living with mental illness.  

Chancellor, Professor Shergold AC, would like to thank all staff, students, and their families who have generously donated gifts and continued to support the Chancellor’s Christmas Toy Appeal.

Western Sydney University wishes everyone the best for the festive season, and a safe, restful holiday break.

ENDS
15 December 2021
Danielle Aiken, Media Officer
Photo Credit: Sally Tsoutas