Volunteers Shine Bright This Christmas Season 

As the festive season fills our community with light and joy, we pause to celebrate the true gifts that cannot be wrapped or placed under a tree – the time, kindness, and compassion of our Northern Health volunteers.

Last week, 150 of our volunteers came together for a festive lunch, not only to celebrate friendships and community, but to remind us all of the spirit of Christmas: giving without expectation, sharing warmth, and bringing comfort to those who need it most.

Over the past year, our volunteers fundraising initiatives have raised more than $91,000, every cent of which has gone directly towards purchasing equipment for wards and enhancing spaces across our health service. These contributions are more than numbers, they are gifts of hope, safety, and care for patients and families during their most vulnerable moments.

Henni Wade, Manager of Volunteer Services, captured the essence of their work: “Our volunteers give something that cannot be bought, borrowed, or replaced: their time, their kindness, and their presence.”

From the friendly faces of our wayfinding guides who turn confusion into calm, to the behind-the-scenes helpers who fold thousands of letters, prepare patient packs, restock libraries, cuddle babies, and offer a hot cup of tea or coffee to visitors , every act of service is a thread in the tapestry of compassion that defines our health service. Our patient visitors, simply through their presence, a gentle conversation, a steady hand in a difficult moment, or quietly sitting beside someone who needs to know they’re not alone, have provided comfort to thousands of patients.

In this season of giving, we are reminded that our volunteers embody the very heart of Christmas. They bring light into dark days, joy into weary hearts, and connection into every corner of our health service.

On behalf of the Executive Team, our staff, our patients, and our community, we extend our deepest gratitude. Thank you for being the stars that guide us, the hands that comfort us, and the spirit that makes our health service feel like family!