The Rotary Camberwell Community Service Committee recently launched an initiative to provide funding for 20 Buddy Bags, to be distributed to children entering foster care, through the Alanna and Madeline Foundation.Each year, approximately 11,000 children and young people in Australia are placed under the protection of child welfare authorities due to significant risk or lack of a safe home. In addition, many more face traumatic experiences as a result of events like natural disasters and other hardships.
Buddy Bags are backpacks filled with items such as a teddy bear for comfort, new pyjamas, a book, socks and underwear. For children in challenging situations, receiving a backpack filled with new belongings can provide reassurance that they are valued and cared for. Many of these children have never had anything brand new to call their own. Buddy Bags offers both practical essentials and a sense of comfort.