Students from the P-6C and P-6M classes at Mount Isa Special School have brought festive joy to Mount Isa Hospital, donating Christmas gifts and supplies for the Ronald McDonald Hospitality Cart and the children’s ward. 

The initiative stemmed from life skills classes, where students explored the importance of identifying safe community spaces and individuals who can provide help in times of need.

 Their teacher, Casey Francis, said the idea came directly from the students, who were eager to support the hospital. 

“After recently identifying the hospital as a safe community space with safe strangers to help us in our life skills classes, the students of P-6C and P-6M wanted to know more about how they could help the hospital,” Ms Francis said. 

“The students decided they could give back by donating gifts to the children’s ward. 

“We all enjoyed the visit and hope that all kids and adults staying in hospital over Christmas enjoy the gifts that we chose. We hope it brings a bit of extra joy to the ward.” 

The students personally selected the items: 

Noah: “I used my PBL Reward to choose toys online for Ms Francis to get for the kids.”

Quinn: “I chose my favourite snacks for them.”

Demetrios: “I chose toys they could play with while in bed.”

Dominic: “I went to Kmart to pick some toys.”

Dylan: “I donated money so the kids going could pick some toys.” 

North West Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Sean Birgan praised the students for their generosity and thoughtfulness. 

“This wonderful gesture by the students of Mount Isa Special School highlights the spirit of giving and the importance of community connections during the festive season,” Mr. Birgan said. 

“The children’s ward and Ronald McDonald Hospitality Cart will benefit greatly from these donations, which will undoubtedly bring smiles to many faces this Christmas. 

“It’s heartwarming to see young people so engaged in giving back to their community, and we are grateful to Miss Francis and the students for their efforts to support our hospital.” 

The heartfelt donations were delivered during a visit to the hospital, marking a special moment for the students and hospital staff.