Early Christmas cheer for Sydney's homeless community

Christmas will arrive a little earlier for around 100 homeless and disadvantaged Sydneysiders this year when AGL throws its annual Christmas lunch at the Mission Australia Centre today.

Volunteers from AGL – including CEO, Michael Fraser – will put on a well-deserved Christmas lunch with all the trimmings for those doing it tough living in Sydney’s inner city. From catering through to gifts, and even providing the entertainment, AGL volunteers will unleash their Christmas cheer to celebrate the festive season.

With the event now in its seventh year Michael Fraser said AGL and its staff were committed to making a difference in disadvantaged communities using a combination of their expertise and enthusiasm.

“It’s been a tough year but none more so for the individuals who’ll be sharing this Christmas event with us. It’s one of the high points of our year to spend time at the Mission Australia Centre and it brings home the real meaning of Christmas to everyone involved,” he said.

“AGL is a close partner of Mission Australia’s and we sincerely welcome the commitment and contribution of its staff,” said Mission Australia’s CEO, Toby Hall.

“This is a great example of the way corporates can help strengthen communities.”

The first service of its kind built in Australia, the Mission Australia Centre (MAC) moves beyond traditional crisis accommodation to meet the needs of a new generation of homeless people.

Rather than the short-term and 'one-size fits all' approach often associated with crisis shelters, the MAC specialises its care, encourages independent living, allows clients stays of up to three months and offers a range of services (eg: dental, GP, education, computer skills, counselling, employment) to help people back on their feet long-term.