With a twist on traditional Christmas bonuses, SJD Homes employees in Officer have forgone their annual Christmas gifts to instead redirect the money to local charities.
BK 2 Basics, Follow Bless Collective, Christmas on the Streets (COTS) and Have a Little Hope in Pakenham were each donated $5000 as part of the new Christmas tradition by the building company.
“At SJD Homes, we have always endeavoured to build more than just homes, with a clear vision to give back to the community and the environment,“ a spokeperson for the company said.
“SJD Homes has committed to giving back to the local community in ways that support vulnerable people in the community, provide a safe haven for
families in need, and support the environment in various ways, including making donations of time and money, building homes, and participating in fundraisers.
“In the past two years, Covid-19 has completely changed the way live and work, and as we start to return to some form of normality, the effects of Covid will live on for many more years.“
Usually, senior management puts together gifts for all employees for their hardwork throughout the year.
“In light of the events of 2020 and 2021, SJD staff came together and collectively decided to forego their gifts and instead redirect the money to select local charities in order to make Christmas memorable for families who have struggled,“ the spokesperson said.
“We recognised the importance of looking after our community at this time of the year, and wanted to do all we could to make a difference.“
SJD Homes donated $5000 to BK 2 Basics, a local family charity in Narre Warren, as well as hampers full of toys and games to be donated to local families. BK to Basics provides a food service to disadvantaged families all over Melbourne.
$5000 went to Follow Bless Collective, a local food van run by Follow Baptist Church in Officer. Follow Bless Collective supports the community through services, programs, support, and genuine love to those who are undervalued, isolated, and disadvantaged within the Cardinia Shire and beyond.
Another $5000 was donated to Christmas on the Streets (COTS), a not-for-profit organisation supporting men and women experiencing homelessness in Melbourne. COTS offers companionship, food, clothing, sanitary products, gifts and essential items to individuals and communities that are in need.
Lastly, $5000 went to Have a Little Hope in Pakenham, a charity helping local families in need. Have a Little Hope was started in honour of its founder, Bobo’s late son, Aaron. The team work tirelessly to support families in the community who have been affected by tragedy, trauma, and hardship to provide food and essentials during challenging times.
“We hope our donations will make a much needed difference to our local community and families in need,“ the SJD Homes spokesperson said.
“We look forward to continuing this support for years to come.“
