We provide a range of material aid, assistance and education programs.
Material aid
We collect preloved nursery equipment, children’s bedding, clothing, books and toys for redistribution to families in need in West Heidelberg, Preston, Reservoir and all suburbs in Banyule.
We collect goods and check they are in very good condition, clean and safe.
We distribute goods to families in need. The first time, a referral from a social worker, nurse, doctor, teacher or another welfare agency is needed. Generally, the family should have a healthcare card. The Angels will provide continued assistance for families as their children grow.
There is no charge for any goods received. If you would like to receive goods, find out how.
Reading Angels
The Reading Angels aim to provide children with beautiful books in their home and to encourage them to read. They collect books and give them to children from birth up to the end of primary school.
Every request for clothes and childrens’ goods that is provided by 3081 Angels, will also include a few books and toys because they are very important for a child’s development, as well as being fun!
The Reading Angels provide tubs of pre-loved books in waiting rooms that children can take home and keep. They also ensure that all children receive a new, age appropriate book if they are part of the Banyule Children’s Gift Appeal at Christmas.
You can donate childrens’ books in good condition – no scribbles or torn pages though please!
The Reading Angels spread the message about the strong link that exists between reading stories with children and their early literacy development. They help parents assist their children to develop the skills they will need for school and some volunteers also work with individuals in playgroups and at local childcare centres.
Story club
Story Club is run by Olympic Neighbourhood House and Banyule Community Health in every Tuesday from 3.15pm – 4.45pm (other than school holidays). Primary age children (particularly targeting Prep-Grade 3) have afternoon tea, do some fun language based activities and games and some writing.
In Terms 1 and 2 we wrote a book of childrens’ stories and in Terms 3 and 4 we will write and produce a puppet play. Children from all schools are welcome and it is especially nice if you can bring a parent or carer with you.
If you like this, you will also like our We Love Stories program!