For the sixth consecutive year, ISS Facility Services has spread Christmas magic and joy to the Children’s Ward, generously presenting gifts donated by our local community.

Snez Poposka, Facilities Service Manager at ISS, initiated the Christmas Appeal in 2017 with the aim of bringing smiles to children’s faces during their hospital stay throughout the Christmas and New Year period.

The concept originated six years ago when Ms Poposka, a mother herself, empathised with the idea of sick children spending Christmas in a hospital bed instead of with their families. Determined not to let any child miss out on the festive joy, the annual donation drive has grown, reaching over 500 gifts donated to the children at Northern Hospital Epping.

These heartfelt gifts, surpassing 100 each year, are contributed by the compassionate staff at ISS, Northern Health and the local community. Witnessing the joy on a sick child’s face upon receiving a game or toy is a special reward for Ms Poposka.

“The collaboration between ISS and Northern Health staff, alongside the support from the Northern Health Foundation, has successfully brought this heart-warming initiative to life,” she said.

The donated gifts include soft toys, colouring books, puzzles and games, showcasing the kindness and generosity of the community. ISS recently delivered these gifts, and the colourful, wrapped presents brought smiles not only to the children, but also to their families.

Ms. Poposka expressed her deep gratitude to all the ISS and Northern Health staff, as well as the Northern Health Foundation, for their unwavering support and generosity throughout the years.

“This collaborative effort has truly made a positive impact on the community and exemplifies the spirit of giving back during the holiday season,” she said.

Alecia Caddy, NUM, Children’s Ward, Northern Hospital, Epping, said, “Christmas and the Holiday Season is such a magical and fun time for many children and to be spending part of that time in hospital away from their family and friends can be quite challenging. We know there are many choices when it comes to donating and we are truly grateful that the ISS team chose to donate to the children on Ward 2. Your support means the world to us! Without it, we would not be able to have the impact we do on our community – thank you.”

Pictured in featured image: Children’s Ward staff and patient with Snez Poposka, Facilities Services Manager, ISS and Saj Amerasinghe, Key Account Manager, ISS.