Gowrie Victoria has an 85-year legacy of supporting vulnerable children and families, with a strong commitment to community which is evident at each of our services. One way this commitment comes to life is through our annual Christmas toy drives, which have become a valued tradition at Clare Court, Carlton North, Broadmeadows Valley and The Harbour.

Last year, Carlton North ran a Christmas toy drive which was delivered in partnership with Spectrum Migrant Resource Centre. Spectrum supports newly arrived children and families as they settle into life in Australia, many of whom arrive with few personal belongings after experiencing significant change, disruption and displacement. The toy drive aims to offer something simple but meaningful—a toy for each child to call their own.

Over the years, Broadmeadows Valley, Clare Court, The Harbour and Carlton North have all contributed to this incentive which has grown into a shared practice embraced by multiple Gowrie Victoria communities.

What makes the toy drive particularly meaningful is the way children are active participants in the experience. Rather than being a fundraiser led only by adults, educators invite children into conversations about who the toys are for, why we collect them, and how acts of kindness can support others. These discussions often prompt children to wonder about diversity and belonging, as they reflect on what it might feel like to move to a new country and start again.

Educational Leader at Carlton North, Amy Bartley, explains how families play a vital role in this giving. “Choosing a toy to gift provides a meaningful opportunity for families to talk about generosity, empathy and supporting others in their community,” says Amy. “Many families have shared how much they value having a tangible way to explore these ideas, particularly at a time of year often focused on receiving rather than giving.”

We are proud to continue this tradition and are grateful to the children, families and community partners who make it possible each year. Through the simple act of giving a toy, we are also nurturing compassion, understanding and connection—gifts that extend far beyond the festive season.

Reflective questions:

  • How does your service contribute to the wider community?
  • How can you support children to meaningfully engage with recognising unfairness and acting with compassion?
  • In what ways can we support families to contribute meaningfully to the broader community?
  • What might it look like to centre children as active contributors and decision-makers in future community initiatives?