Canberra United spread some early Christmas cheer this week as they made their annual visit to Canberra Hospital to pass out Christmas presents to those unfortunate enough to be spending the festive season in hospital.
Chloe Lincoln, Madison McComasky, Sasha Grove, Keeley Richards, and Ellen Gett were on hand to play Santa, handing out the mountain of gifts kindly donated by supporters of both Canberra United and Wellington Phoenix before the Liberty A-League match at McKellar Park.
“We are overwhelmed by the generosity that has been shared with patients across the hospital in the lead up to Christmas,” Helen Falla, CEO of Canberra Hospital Foundation commented.
“Christmas is such a special time of year, one usually spent surrounded by loved ones and friends. Unfortunately for some people due to an unavoidable or devastating circumstance, it is spent in hospital. Which I am sure you can appreciate is very difficult.
“Because of Canberra United’s kindness nurses on ward will be able to share with patients in hospital on Christmas morning a gift, a beautiful gesture but even more special knowing that this was gifted by a complete stranger to help make their day a little brighter.
“The symbolic power of generosity and to know someone is thinking of them on Christmas day is a huge morale booster.”
United continued their tradition of passing out presents to those affected by illness at this time of year, a giving tradition that has been going nearly as long as the Liberty A-League, the competition in which the players participate.
“We are delighted to be able to give these presents to the youngsters at Canberra Hospital,” Canberra United CEO, Chris Gardiner said.
“We would like to thank all of our supporters, and those form Wellington Phoenix, who so generously donated the gifts that we were able to distribute on Thursday. This is just another example of how strongly United values our community ties.”
Canberra United continue their Liberty A-League campaign this evening at Seiffert Oval in Queanbeyan with Melbourne City as the visitors, kick-off at 6pm.
