For many kids popping on their pyjamas, brushing their teeth and falling into their own comfy bed at the end of a long day of play is not a luxury. It’s a part of their lives they take for granted.
But what of the many Australian children that aren’t so lucky?
Atlanta Hall meets these kids on a regular basis. A child protection case worker, she sees children and teenagers at the worse time of their lives – after they have fled their home because of untold horrors or a basic lack of care.
“The decision for a child to be taken into care is never taken lightly and can be an extremely traumatic experience for parents and children,” the 41-year old from Wagga Wagga tells New Idea. Over the last 10 years Buddy Bags have become an important part of the process.
The bags are the brainchild of the Alannah & Madeline Foundation which was set up in memory of six-year old Alannah and three-year old Madeline Mikac who were who were tragically killed with their mother and 32 others at Port Arthur in 1996.
The Buddy Bags are backpacks full of things like a toothbrush, a teddy, a pillowcase, some socks, a book and a photo frame. They’re given to the kids on their arrival at emergency accomodation and the response to them has been magical.
Atlanta has handed out dozens of backpacks in her years but she remembers one case very clearly.
“Two siblings told me it was the first time they had ever had matching pyjamas and their own new bag,” she says. “They both kept hugging and smelling their new cuddle toy, saying how soft it was and how nice it smelt and just kept saying, ‘Thank you we love them so much’ and proudly putting their new bags on their backs and walking around saying ‘look at my back pack’”.
As well as a diversion to their current situation the bags perform a very practical role.
“Many times all they have is what they’re wearing,” Atlanta says. “Even though they’re worried about their home and families and possessions, they get some comfort in receiving new items that also meet their immediate hygiene needs.”
An incredible 80,000 buddy bags have been handed out over the last 10 years and Atlanta says she feels grateful to be part of the programme.
“I feel privileged to be a calm and predictable person during a very turbulent period in these children’s lives,” she smiles.
If you would like to help a child in need these holidays, visit the Alannah & Madeline Foundation’s Christmas catalogue www.mostwantedtoys.com.au
You can also read more about Buddy Bags and the work of the Alannah & Madeline Foundation here.
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