This has been a difficult year for many, with cost-of-living pressures putting more people in a position of need than we’ve seen during the 5 years Roundabout Canberra has existed. The theme of our end-of-year appeal this year is ‘Dignity for Canberra Children’. Some might wonder why we are focused on dignity when families are going without basic essentials… But how we give matters as much as the quantity, and this should apply to all forms of giving and support.

When individuals or families find themselves facing economic challenges or other forms of crisis, asking for help or support can be embarrassing or emotionally taxing. At Roundabout we are very deliberate in our decision to provide support to families through social services, rather than directly to the families. We don’t want to ask a family to repeat their story yet again to another service to receive the items they need for their children. If this can be done through an existing relationship with a service, we see that as a good thing.

As a community, we can play an important role in ensuring that the act of receiving help is accompanied by a sense of empowerment rather than shame. Charitable acts are expressions of kindness, compassion and solidarity, however, the way we provide support holds the power to either uplift or, sometimes accidentally diminish the spirits of those being supported. The act of giving should be seen as something that goes beyond meeting basic needs and addresses the fundamental desire for respect and understanding. Giving shouldn’t just be about providing essential items; but should be about delivering a message that someone cares, understands, and has put love and care into the act.

By keeping dignity front and centre to our charitable efforts, we reinforce the notion that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves to be treated with kindness and respect, and of course to have nice things which are fit for purpose. Whether it’s a pram for a newborn, a warm coat for a child, or school supplies, the way we present our contributions can make a significant difference in how recipients perceive themselves and their worth.

Having access to high quality essential goods play an important role in upholding dignity: preventing social isolation, creating connection, upholding wellbeing and ensuring that children and their families feel they ‘fit in’ with their peers.

At Roundabout, it is not just about the material assistance we provide but about the emotional and psychological wellbeing we preserve in the process. When we prioritise dignity in giving, the recipients of our assistance not only receive essential items but also experience a sense of connection, knowing that their community values their well-being beyond the material support. And we contribute to the creation of a more compassionate and supportive community, which benefits all of us!

So, how can we collectively champion dignity in giving?

1. Educate and spread awareness: engage in conversations within your community, workplace, or social circles to raise awareness about the importance of dignity in charitable acts. By reminding others of the importance of this, we lay the foundation for a more compassionate society.

2. Quality matters: whether it’s baby or children’s goods, food, or other essentials, strive for quality in your donations. Embrace the concept that every item given is a gift, reflecting the respect and care you hold for those you are looking to support.

Together, let’s build a community where compassion knows no bounds, and the dignity of every individual, regardless of their circumstances, is recognised, honoured, and preserved. And in doing so, we’ll make our community a better place for all of us to live!

If you want to play a role in changing the lives of local children and their families, with dignity front and centre, make a donation to our end of year appeal today! Even the smallest of donations can have a big impact!

https://bit.ly/ig-RC-DignityAppeal23

Written by Roundabout Canberra CEO and Founder, Hannah Andrevski