A special video message from our Deputy CEO this Christmas

“I personally am very grateful for the very happy memories I have of Christmas.

My brothers and I always racing towards under the tree to see what we had…and always getting that very special gift. I have memories that have lasted my whole lifetime.

Unfortunately, some of the young people in our care, and some of the victim-survivor families, don’t have those opportunities.

It was a big shock to me as a young social worker to understand that family violence incidences often escalate during this time.

And that for young people that are unable to live with their families it’s also a time of great distress and loneliness.

We at Berry Street have adopted the virtual gift catalogue and that way families and young children can have the opportunity to receive a gift that they wouldn’t otherwise receive. Many of our families and children don’t receive anything at Christmas.

If you can support us, please do, and on behalf of our service users I thank you very much and wish you a Merry Christmas.”

- Jenny McNaughton, Berry Street’s Deputy CEO

Make sure no child feels forgotten this Christmas

Thousands of Victorian children can't live safely at home because of violence, abuse and neglect. Many of these children who come into our care have never experienced a happy Christmas.

Buy a gift from Berry Street's online gift catalogue and give joy to a child or young person in need this Christmas.

*Models are used in our images to protect the identities of the children and families we work with.