Hope in a Suitcase (HIAS) is a current Rotary Camberwell community service project with financial contribution from a District 9800 Grant in April 2026. The Project supports children entering Out of Home Care in Victoria—often arriving with few belongings and experiencing significant trauma and disruption. Building on the standard HIAS suitcase of essential items, this one-off initiative will fund approximately 765 “high value” gifts, estimated to benefit around 615 children, adding comfort and a sense of normalcy during a distressing transition.
The project will provide three key items—sports ball
s, gem art and durable water bottles—chosen for their therapeutic and developmental value. Sports equipment encourages play, confidence and social connection; creative activities like gem art support calm, focus and self-expression; and quality water bottles promote wellbeing while giving children something personal they can feel proud to own. Each suitcase will also include a printed card with a message of hope, reinforcing belonging and self-worth.
s, gem art and durable water bottles—chosen for their therapeutic and developmental value. Sports equipment encourages play, confidence and social connection; creative activities like gem art support calm, focus and self-expression; and quality water bottles promote wellbeing while giving children something personal they can feel proud to own. Each suitcase will also include a printed card with a message of hope, reinforcing belonging and self-worth.Gifts will be sourced by Rotary Camberwell in consultation with HIAS, delivered to the HIAS warehouse for packing, and distributed to children across metro and regional Victoria. The wider community as well as Rotarians will be involved through volunteering opportunities. Project promotion of the process and outcomes will be shared through Rotary channels including District 9800. Many thanks to Nadia Hamilton and the Community Service Committee.