Kids in Care ACT overwhelmed by Canberra’s response
Kids in Care ACT ensures every child in crisis and emergency care over the holiday period receives a gift on Christmas Day.
ACT Policing Detective Sergeant John Giles set up the charity in 2013 after he and his team attended a job at Christmas time and found four small children who had been neglected.
Detective Sergeant Giles knew these children would not experience Christmas like most, and organised donations of toys to make sure they would receive gifts on Christmas morning.
Beginning with these four children, the Kids in Care charity now provides gifts to many children in need over the holiday period.
Kids in Care board member and ACT Policing Detective Senior Constable Alex Uren said many charities have been affected by COVID this year, including Kids in Care.
“What is incredible is that thanks to the overwhelming support of the Canberra community, we have been able to raise as much as we have in previous years,” Detective Senior Constable Uren said.
“Every year, we’re overcome by the generosity of the Canberra community and local businesses in supporting this wonderful charity.
“Since 2013, Kids in Care has grown to a point where we can now supply gifts to all children supported by Child and Youth Protection Services not only at Christmas time but throughout the year. Those children include kids with foster carers, emergency carers, people providing temporary accommodation, extended families looking after children and other families that might be struggling a little.
“This Christmas we are providing a present (of their choice) to more than 600 Children, things like bikes, games, lego and dolls.”
Kids in Care has also expanded to provide ‘Go Bags’ for children put into last minute emergency or foster care. Children often have very little possessions, all of which might fit into a small bag.
“Go Bags are made for each of the age groups and contained in a backpack are important items such as clothes, toiletries, books and toys to make the transition a little easier,” Detective Senior Constable Uren said.
“I’d particularly like to thank Icon Water, who has partnered with Kids in Care this year as a major sponsor. Kids in Care relies on the generosity of local businesses and Canberrans to continue its important work.
“I’d like to pass on my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has donated or supported the cause this year, particularly our partners the Australian Federal Police, Rotary, Bunnings, Big W, CYPS, Mix 106.3, National Mailing and Marketing, Toyworld, Distinct Property Management, Cirrus Networks, Able Landscaping and countless community members.
“These children’s holidays are brighter thanks to your efforts. Without the support of the Canberra Community we would not be where we are today.”
The Kids in Care team will also be wrapping gifts outside Woden and Gungahlin Big W stores for a gold coin donation for every Saturday during December until Christmas.
Media enquiries
Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au