Disadvantaged Australians came together on December 25, 2023, for a Christmas lunch organized by the Rev Bill Crews Foundation in Sydney. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with other political leaders, served meals to those in need, providing both food and a sense of community during the festive season.
Albanese donned an apron and gloves, wielding a pair of tongs as he distributed festive dishes including ham and potatoes. He was joined by New South Wales (NSW) Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane, Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek, state MP Jo Haylen, and NSW Premier Chris Minns. The politicians took turns delivering hot meals to the attendees, showcasing their commitment to supporting vulnerable populations during the holidays.
The atmosphere at the foundation was filled with warmth and gratitude. Reverend Bill Crews, who founded the organization, emphasized the importance of connection in challenging times. “Most of the people here have dislocated families and lives,” he told the Australian Associated Press (AAP). “For them to come and connect with one another shows they can find some hope in a world which is pretty grey at the moment.”
Many diners expressed their appreciation for the Prime Minister’s presence, eagerly requesting handshakes and selfies as he served meals. This warm reception marked a notable contrast to the public sentiment surrounding Albanese in recent weeks, which had been overshadowed by anger and fear following a terrorist attack at Bondi Beach.
Volunteer Di King, affectionately known as “Auntie Di,” has spent the last eleven Christmases cooking at the foundation. She greeted Albanese with a hug upon his arrival, highlighting the community’s need for support. “It’s important to all of us to have community,” she stated. “We have a lot of people who have mental health problems, with addiction, lonely old people, people of Chinese ethnicity who’ve come out to look after grandchildren. They really, really need us, and we need them.”
Albanese has a long-standing relationship with the foundation, having volunteered alongside his son for many years. On the same day, his government announced a pledge of $10 million AUD for the foundation, reinforcing the importance of its work. “This is a cause extremely close to my heart,” Albanese remarked. “I am so proud to call Bill a friend and to have seen up close the impact his work has made.”
The Christmas lunch at the Rev Bill Crews Foundation not only provided nourishment but also fostered a sense of belonging and hope among attendees, illustrating the critical role that community initiatives play in addressing social issues in Australia.
