Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) staff are spreading Christmas joy this Advent, digging deep to help 27 families across South East Queensland, as part of BCE’s Adopt-a-Family program. For the 19th year running, the program generously provides urgent relief to those experiencing hardship (family violence, addiction, or natural disasters), encouraging BCE staff to live out Gospel values by promoting the dignity of every person.
With Father Wally Dethlefs in tow, BCE staff and volunteers loaded up 125 wrapped boxes filled with Christmas gifts and non-perishable items, to be delivered to the families in need before Christmas day.
The program, coordinated by BCE Business Services Coordinator Helen Hartwig since 2015, provides staff the opportunity to share their faith with others, with no strings or expectations attached.
“All our staff know about their adopted families is their first names, ages, and likes and interests,” she said.
“We’ve found knowing a little bit about the adopted families helps staff create a connection with whom they are buying for, while still maintaining the privacy of those receiving the hampers filled with gifts and groceries.
“I’m always surprised by the generosity of BCE staff, who give more with each passing year we run this program.
“BCE’s staff efforts and unconditional non-judgemental giving shows the adopted families that there is hope, and that they are part of something bigger.”
The hampers are now on their way from BCE’s Woolloongabba Office to the adopted families' homes, with Sue Treweek’s band of helpers donating their time to make the generous deliveries.
