16 December 2024
Hope is a powerful thing
Working as a counsellor at Kids Helpline, Leigh* has experienced the profound impact simply listening and offering compassion has on the life of a young person who is struggling.
“The most rewarding aspect of this role is witnessing a caller transform from a state of distress to one of hope and empowerment," Leigh said.
“Their voice has a lighter quality, and their words convey a sense of renewed determination.”
It’s that transformation in demeanour, the visible shift when hope begins to sprout, that is particularly memorable to Leigh.
This is what keeps counsellors like Leigh coming back to work each day.
"As Kids Helpline counsellors, we have the privilege of being a supportive presence for young people during their most vulnerable moments. Providing a safe and non-judgmental space for them to share their feelings is incredibly meaningful work.”
- Leigh, Kids Helpline Counsellor
Your hopes this Christmas
With the holiday season already upon us and Christmas fast approaching, we asked you one question:
What is your hope for children and young people this Christmas?
The answers you shared, captured our hearts.
“I hope that young people can be with others who care about them, celebrate their individuality, and uplift them. People who will create a culture of positivity that these young people can take into their lives, and spread that joy. To inspire us all to be better and to care about others. To grow to be people who are happy, and who are good.”
– Emma
“My hope is that no matter what troubles young people are facing, no matter how bad things seem, there are people who care about them, will support them, and will not abandon them, no matter the circumstance. There is a place of safety and love for each and every one of you.”
– Mike
While Christmas is a time of celebration, family, and hope for the new year, for some children and young people, the holidays can be a challenging time.
At home, their family might not fit the picturesque Christmas. So, when the last school bell of the year rings, they are cut off from their support network and safe place.
For these children and young people, Christmas can be a time of grief and loneliness.
The counsellors at Kids Helpline know this better than anyone.
“We often encounter young people who are in crisis, experiencing complex mental health issues, abuse, or suicidal ideation,” Leigh said.
And this Christmas there will be young people looking to Kids Helpline to provide that support. That's where you come in.
Your tickets give hope
The sad truth is that we can't answer all their calls. But your tickets give hope. That’s why we need your help—so we can be there for them in their time of need.
Each Prize Home ticket you buy helps us answer more calls. With 70% of Kids Helpline sessions occurring outside normal working hours (like on Christmas Day), your support means professional counsellors can continue to respond all year round and be available anytime, anywhere, for any reason.
“We are often the first point of contact for young people seeking help, whether it's for a crisis situation or simply needing someone to talk to,” Leigh said.
“Reaching out to Kids Helpline for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. It takes courage and self-awareness to recognise when you need help.
“Witnessing the positive change and growth in the young people I work with, and knowing that I played a part in empowering them to overcome their struggles, is deeply gratifying and serves as a constant source of motivation, even on the most challenging days.”
You can be part of creating this safe space by donating or buying Prize Home tickets.
“Your generous contributions provide a lifeline for young Australians in distress or crisis, ensuring they have access to free and confidential counselling support whenever they need it most.”
As for Leigh, our Kids Helpline counsellor, her hope is that young people are kind to themselves.
“My advice would be to approach yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a dear friend. Recognise that you are on a journey of growth and learning—it's natural to make mistakes and experience setbacks.”
*Leigh's name has been changed for privacy
“Even if you only have one person in your corner cheering you on, one is enough to change your life. Appreciate the small things these can lead to big wins.”
– Keleah
“That they understand their potential and life isn't dependant on what they can offer to others but instead about what makes them feel great 💜”
– Briony
“My hope for young people is to find the strength and courage to pick up the phone and talk to someone on the other end who will listen and discuss what they are going through. To give them joy, happiness, and Christmas wishes.”
– Diane
“To know they are loved and appreciated. That they are resilient and strong, having faced so much more than my generation. And they can achieve everything they have dreamed of. With the support of corporations like yourtown.”
– Melissa
Your ticket helps make sure no one is alone on Christmas Day
Here at yourtown, we hope that in the new year your support will continue to help us answer the call. For just $15, you could not only change your own life, but someone else’s. Each ticket you buy helps fund essential services like Kids Helpline.
So, from all of yourtown, thank you. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
