Lifeview residents help fill Backpacks4VicKids in latest Paying it Forward gift

Each edition of Lifeview’s Paying it Forward usually ends with a heartwarming cheque handover.

This time, Lifeview residents took a more hands-on approach.

Armed with $700 of donated money and plenty of enthusiasm, Lifeview Willow Wood residents Corry and Margaret set out on a shopping spree for Backpacks4VicKids.

This organisation provides crisis and gift packs to vulnerable young people across Victoria.

Corry and Margaret’s morning was spent filling trolleys with items the charity needed most.

The list included everything from pyjamas, toiletries, colouring books and craft supplies, each chosen with care to bring a little comfort and joy to children facing difficult circumstances.

Since 2014, Backpacks4VicKids has provided more than 60,000 backpacks valued at over $12.6 million in material aid.

Each backpack is packed with clothing, school supplies, hygiene items and a comforting toy, giving children something of their own when they need it most.

When the Lifeview residents dropped off their items, volunteers were in the middle of preparing 7000 packs ahead of Christmas.

Every week, Backpacks4VicKids shares a list of urgently required items – the last few essentials needed to complete each backpack before it goes to a child in need.

“The items purchased were on the list of items needed to complete seven ‘My Essentials Packs’ and six ‘Youth Outreach Packs’ needed to fulfil requests,” Backpacks4VicKids CEO & Founder Sally Beard said.

“This wonderful donation enabled us to finalise and deliver an order to VACCA (Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency) in Morwell, providing material aid at a time when it's needed most.”

“We're very grateful for the support of Lifeview Paying it Forward and the residents involved.”

Corry and Margaret were amazed by the scale of the operation.

“I didn’t realise just how big they were,” Corry said.

After a busy morning of shopping, the pair proudly delivered the items to Backpacks4VicKids and saw firsthand how their contribution would be used.

They met some of the volunteers and got a glimpse into the incredible work that goes into sorting and packing every single bag.

In addition to the nearly $700 worth of items purchased, a further $75 in leftover funds was donated directly to support the charity’s mission.

Lifeview Paying it Forward has supported various local charities and community groups since its launch in 2024, contributing over $7000.

Residents and staff across Lifeview’s homes and corporate office raise funds through various initiatives, making a real impact beyond their own walls.

Past recipients include Emerald Kindergarten, the Women’s Spirit Project in Frankston, TeamSports4All in Chelsea, CANA, and Mummy’s Wish.