As a novel way to show solidarity for people in need this Winter and collect donations for our Emergency Relief program, Lutheran Care staff came to work in their Winter Woollies on Wednesday, 21 June.
Staff across Lutheran Care’s South Australian and the Northern Territory sites were invited to get involved by wearing winter clothes, with a fantastic and colourful array of Oodies, Uggies, beanies, scarves and jumpers – even a pink rabbit onesie – on display.
Participating staff were encouraged to bring in their choice of a gold coin, an Emergency Relief pantry or hygiene item, or an item of warm, clean clothing, to benefit our Emergency Relief clients.
Several bags of long-life groceries, shampoos and conditioners were collected, as well as a bag of new children’s knit jumpers and beanies, and about $150 in coins (which will be used to purchase items needed for the Emergency Relief program).
Some fun staff photos were sent through, with staff members commenting that wearing comfy ‘home’ clothes at work was conducive to a cosy and comfortable work environment and that “we should do this more often!”
The Alice Springs team enjoyed rugging up even though the weather locally was 22 degrees – much more temperate than the wintry weather experienced by their South Australian colleagues.
Lutheran Care’s Wear Your Winter Woollies to Work event closely coincided with the Winter Solstice, which this year fell in Australia on 22 June.
Lutheran Care’s Manager Financial Wellbeing Services, Kelly Hughes, says: “the cold weather is a big topic of conversation around the office at the moment, and unfortunately many people we help are really suffering with the extra expense of keeping the heat on amidst their other cost of living pressures”.
“Encouraging our staff members to get involved in an event like this, and think and talk about the situations of our clients – particularly our non-client facing staff – brings us all back to our purpose,” Kelly adds.
“The Emergency Relief team really appreciates all donations which we will be able to make great use of with our clients.”
Lutheran Care’s Chief Executive Officer, Rohan Feegrade, says: “It was great to see everyone getting into the spirit of the day – many within our team can’t go past a dress up day, and have big hearts for the people we serve at Lutheran Care”.
“Even though it’s a very busy time of year, it was wonderful to see the smiles and the funny outfits bring some warmth to the office on such a cold, grey day.
“The donations could not come at a better time, with many people seeking out our services right now.
“Thanks to the organisers and to everyone who participated. Hopefully more organisations will get in on the fun by running their own event.”
The Wear Your Woollies to Work idea was based on a fundraiser by local Lutheran College, Concordia, whose students have been running casual days with proceeds going to Lutheran Care.
We would love more schools and workplaces to get involved! To express your interest and request an information pack, please send an email to communications@lutherancare.org.au
Organisations can run their own event at any point until the end of Winter.
Alternatively, please consider donating to our 2023 Winter Appeal; read the stories of our clients Carol and Oscar and find out more, here: https://www.lutherancare.org.au/winter-appeal/