In an incredible collaborative effort, on 23 December 2023, HWPL, ARK, Reclink Australia, and Brimbank City Council collaborated on “In My Shoes: A Christmas Peace Meal” in Brimbank. HWPL volunteers provided food, Christmas hampers, and gifts, emphasising unity and community support. Approximately 92 participants from the public attended excluding volunteers. This extraordinary event successfully bridged divides within the Brimbank community by facilitating meaningful dialogue between the marginalised or those experiencing homelessness and Brimbank City Councillors.
On the day over 220 gift packs, 400 pairs of shoes, 500 pieces of clothing, 25 boxes of pizza, 300 loaves of bread and 150 sausages were distributed to those in need. At least 92 individuals from the community in difficulty benefitted from the volunteers’ efforts.
With the barbecue lunch, gift hampers with educational books, sporting equipment, and free to take footwear and clothing. Brimbank City, facing challenges like a rise in rough sleepers and youth disengagement, will greatly benefit from the event which will reduce mental health issues, provide resources where it is needed and create the conversation needed between councillors, community leaders and disadvantaged individuals. The event aimed to address these issues, showcasing Brimbank’s unity and support for the community. The collaboration between each group made the event possible, with HWPL and ArkVic’s volunteers and Reclink supporting with gifts and equipment.
Local Councillors participated and commented:
“It’s about building trust with our community. These issues could happen to anyone. So, I really thank these groups, HWPL, Reclink and ARK who came down to meet our people and build that trust”
— Cr Virginia Tachos
“It is important to let them know that they matter and to bring solitude and a spirit of Christmas and I’m sure these memories will last forever. We need to show that we are all equal humans, every single one of us”
— Cr. Victoria Borg
A memorable Christmas was made for the entire community thanks to HWPL Volunteers preparing food and packing Christmas hampers for the locals. The day was successful with a big lunch, Christmas gifts of footwear, clothing, and sports equipment and the HWPL volunteers who created the cheerful community atmosphere.
Local residents stated:
“Thank you so much, your group are like angels. I wish we could have this every week”
“Tonight means a lot. I’m at a stage in my life where I need to find myself a life and loads more in between. I’m a character that you don’t normally see. But I’m a good soul that needs a load of love and a little understanding.”
Brimbank City, known for its rich history and diversity, had faced challenges due to a rise in rough sleepers, youth disengagement, and inaccessibility for the disadvantaged. Recognising this need for collaborative solutions, HWPL, ARK, and Reclink Australia came together to address these issues head-on, proudly showing the power of Brimbank to unite and support the community. This collaborative effort represents a commitment to challenging stereotypes and fostering unity within the Brimbank community.
About the Collaborators
HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light) is an international non-profit organisation operating in over 150 countries. HWPL thinks globally and acts locally in its endeavours. The DPCW (Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War) is a document created for countries to achieve peace, and HWPL works to spread the awareness of global peace through many initiatives encompassing all sectors of society. HWPL Melbourne Branch prioritises communication with the marginalised neighbours in the region and has been promoting peace culture in the local community through direct beneficiary activities such as volunteering, creating peace through international law, interfaith scripture discussion, and empowerment of the youth. Plans are underway to continue volunteering activities around Victoria in 2024. “In My Shoes: A Christmas Meal,” was hosted to bridge gaps between marginalised groups and leaders and create a cohesive community.
Acts of Random Kindness Victoria Inc (ARK) is a Brimbank-based non-profit working on health education and sports for future generations. They provide opportunities for young women and children from disadvantaged backgrounds. ARK-VIC prioritises community, equality, respect, humility, inclusion, empowerment, and kindness, aiming to propel participants and their families towards a better tomorrow.
Reclink Australia, a non-profit, enhances the lives of disadvantaged individuals through sports and arts programs. With over 30 years of experience, they go above and beyond in serving the community, emphasising the significance of promoting health and well-being through diverse activities.
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