Students provide 'care packages' for children's ward

Students from Umina Beach Public School have provided "care packages" to patients in Gosford Hospital's Children's Ward.

Year 6 student Gabe Chidiac was inspired after watching a television show and decided to rally his classmates to create the care packages.

Teacher, Mr Jacob Butler, said: "We contacted the hospital and they gave us advice about what would be appropriate to put in the care packages.

"We wanted to make sure we provided packages for all age ranges so no one missed out.

"The packages contained things such as books, both colouring and reading, and soft toys," Mr Butler said.

"Gabe presented the idea at the school assembly and also went around to all the classes and reminded them to donate items for the packages for weeks in advance.

"His classmates then spent time packaging and labelling the care packs in age appropriate gift bags.

"We are proud of the efforts of the students and I think the experience has taught them they can achieve anything at any age and that they can be instruments of change."

Gosford Hospital play therapist Ms Gerri Moors said the care packages were greatly appreciated by patients.

"Some of the students came to personally deliver the care packages and it was wonderful for them to see the smiles they put on patients' faces and to hear for themselves how grateful they were," Ms Moors said.

Media release, 25 Jul 2016

Sharna Ryan, Central Coast Local Health District