“Amy Bandeira and I have been combating our lockdown blues by spending a lot of time at our sewing machines. So for the Staff Service Day, we decided to turn our sewing efforts toward a good cause. St. Vincent’s Hospital in Fitzroy not only operates as a medical facility, but also assists vulnerable and struggling members of the community with a variety of needs each day. They put out a call for volunteers to donate face masks that they could distribute to their clients, and were grateful to hear from us and to receive our donation of 53 reusable masks. Hopefully, our small donation will make a difference to those in need.” – Hollie Whitlock

“I made a sweets pack of cupcakes, Mars Bar slice, rum balls and Nutella twists for the elderly that live in my street that I reached out to on our Staff Service Day. They were friends of my Nonna that I know and used to see at her house. I also wrote them individual cards of encouragement in English or Italian with my number if they needed anything. I enjoyed dropping them off at their doors and seeing their faces of surprise and gratitude. I even received a couple of packages back of biscuits and olives the next day, when I said I didn’t want anything in return. It was very humbling. The elderly in my community bring such wisdom and knowledge and are so inspiring to me.” – Louise Crocitti

“My son Aaron and I chose to make cookies to give to our neighbours as a little something to make lockdown a little easier.” – Natalie Bourke

“Baked some yummy desserts and packed them for staff members living in the 5km radius of my house. Hopefully the desserts brightened up everyone’s afternoons.” – Ashlee Hughes

“I live in a fabulous neighbourhood with people who always look out for each other. I made chicken and sweetcorn soup for Trevor and added spring onions that he grew and gave to me. One good turn deserves another.” - Robin Panousieris

“My service day was spent cooking to make sure my mother-in-law stays healthy during COVID-19 isolation” – Marion Jackson

“Today, I wrote letters to people who are isolated because of COVID-19. It reminded me of how enjoyable it is to write an old fashioned letter!” – Sister Mary Sarah

“I decided to bake and surprise a colleague and friend. I am truly grateful to be working in a great team, especially through this crazy time. Their phone calls brighten up my day, so I decided to surprise them and show them how blessed I am to have them in my life.” – Shehani Smith

“For our Service Day, I thought of the elderly people in my neighbourhood who live alone and rely on their children to bring them a home-cooked meal. Today I gave them the day off and decided it was my turn to cook for my neighbours. I hope they can imagine they are dining in a beautiful Tuscan village with the sun shining brightly on their windows Italian food.” – Claudia Russo