In a world increasingly defined by uncertainty and division, the simple act of kindness has never been more important.
As we navigate complex global challenges, ranging from social injustices to environmental crises, acts of compassion and solidarity can offer a much-needed counterbalance to the negativity and fear that often dominate the headlines.
World Kindness Day, observed on November 13 each year across the world, serves as a reminder that small, thoughtful actions can create ripples of positive change.
Supporting not-for-profit causes and championing kindness within their communities is not only a moral imperative, but also an opportunity to foster deeper connections, inspire employee engagement, and build a more resilient, compassionate future for all.
World Kindness Day, introduced in 1998 by a coalition of kindness NGOs through the World Kindness Movement, is an opportunity to highlight good deeds in the community and the common thread of kindness.
Knitting kindness
In a heartwarming continuation of a century-old family tradition, Karen Robins is using her knitting skills to make a difference for families in need through the Women and Infants Research Foundation’s Baby Bundles program.
The Baby Bundles program aids families in need at King Edward Memorial Hospital by supplying essential babywear and blankets to babies born prematurely, in emergencies, or to mothers in desperate situations.
The program provides essentials and keepsakes that offer both practical help and emotional comfort during a critical time, supporting around 700 babies and mothers in crisis situations every year.
Mrs Robins donates thoughtfully hand-knitted playsuits and other baby clothes such as cardigans, onesies and singlets, and essentials such as nappies, wipes, baby wash, wraps, toys, and blankets, twice a year in time for winter and summer.
"My nanna taught me how to knit, and my mum also kept up the tradition, knitting larger items for children through the Guardian Angels program and more recently for those in women’s refuges," Mrs Robins said. “Giving back is simply something we do as a family.”
For Mrs Robins, the Baby Bundles program is close to her heart. “It’s a worthy cause, and I’m glad to give back in a way that I know will make a difference.”
Women and Infants Research Foundation chief executive officer Deb Portughes said the birth of a baby is often a moment of joy, but it can also be a challenging time for many families. “Through the generosity of volunteers like Karen who donate their time, skills, and resources, we are able to bring comfort to hundreds of families across Western Australia,” she said.
The Women and Infants Research Foundation relies on donations and volunteers to continue offering this critical program. As Christmas approaches, the foundation encourages community members to support the initiative. Find out more at wirf.com.au/BabyBundles_CarePackages
Thrifty duo raise $300K
For over 25 years, Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation (PCHF) supporters Janet Reynolds and Nancy Chiam have dedicated countless hours to fundraising for WA’s sick kids.
The pair, who have more than 45 years of volunteering combined and have forged a two-decade bond through their dedication to volunteering, have now raised $300,000 for WA's sick kids through their in-hospital one-stop-shop charity stall.
The charity stall is set up outside the gift shop at Perth Children’s Hospital every second Friday operating from 7am-5pm, and twice-weekly during the festive season.
Their motto, “We’ll take anything,” underscores their commitment to making a difference. Brand-new goods, ranging from toys and games to homewares and books, are put up for sale at Janet and Nancy’s stall, reasonably priced from just 50 cents right through to less than $100 for bigger ticket items.
Janet Reynolds and Nancy Chiam have forged a long friendship through decades of volunteering for WA’s sick kids.
The impact of Janet and Nancy’s stall goes far beyond just monetary donations.
“The time we spend volunteering is so special because we not only raise funds, but also get to spend time speaking with families and helping them to find something special for the people they love when they’re often going through some really hard times,” Nancy said.
“We also have our regular customers, like doctors and nurses coming off night shift who are very busy and are looking for a gift right here in the hospital. Otherwise, it can sometimes be quite difficult for them to find the time for a trip to the shops.”
Janet added, “Nothing goes to waste. Whether it’s a new toy or the occasional designer label find, every item that we sell helps to support the kids at Perth Children’s Hospital.”
Janet’s husband, John, has generously given up precious garage space at home to help store countless donated and carefully sourced treasures.
In addition, Janet and Nancy host stalls fundraising for PCHF at much-loved events such as the Classic Car Show and Canning Show, and occasional pop-ups at local shopping centres.
Donations for the stall can be dropped to the PCH gift shop at the front desk on the ground floor during shop opening hours, or sign up to volunteer here.
