tISS the season to be giving

For the fifth year running, ISS Facility Services have brought Christmas magic and joy to the Children’s Ward, by gifting presents kindly donated by our local community.

Snez Poposka, Facilities Service Manager ISS, began the Christmas Appeal in 2017, with the hope of putting a smile on children’s faces during their hospital stay over Christmas and the New Year.

“The idea was born five years ago. Being a mother myself, I often thought of all the sick children spending their Christmas in a hospital bed, instead of their families. I didn’t want any of those children to miss out on the joy and happiness of the festive season. Each year we donate more than 100 gifts to the children in the Children’s Ward. Over the years, we have donated over 500 gifts to the children at the Northern Hospital, Epping.

“These gifts have been donated by staff at ISS, Northern Health and the community. It’s a special feeling to see the smile on a sick child once they’ve been gifted a game or a toy. It’s rewarding to be able to give back something to the community and it’s fantastic to see that we have all joined forces together, ISS and staff at Northern Health, to bring this initiative to life.”

Soft toys, colouring books, puzzles and games were among the many gifts donated by our kind and generous community. ISS delivered the gifts last week, with many children, and their families, beaming at the sight of colourfully wrapped presents.

“I would like to express my gratitude to all the staff at ISS and Northern Health, as well as the Northern Health Foundation, for their continuous support and generosity over the years,” said Ms Poposka.

Alecia Caddy, NUM, Children’s Ward, Northern Hospital, Epping, said, “We feel incredibly fortunate to be able to have the ISS team visit Ward Two and donate such amazing gifts to children during the Christmas season. The smiles and pure joy that these gifts bring, to brighten their days spent away from family and friends is just so special!”

“We thank you and are truly grateful for your generosity and kindness.”