Kids in Care
About
Kids in Care ACT is a volunteer-run, community charity supporting vulnerable children across the ACT and surrounding regions. We believe every child deserves something to call their own — a small comfort that brings a sense of care, dignity, and normalcy during difficult times.
Our work began in 2013, when Detective Sergeant John Giles of ACT Policing and his team attended a heartbreaking incident involving four neglected children, including a newborn baby. Moved by what he saw, John launched a small Christmas gift drive to make sure every child in care received something special on Christmas morning.
Detective Sergeant John Giles
Photo courtesy of ACT Policing
That simple act of kindness grew into Kids in Care ACT— now an incorporated, ACNC-registered charity providing year-round support. While our Christmas Appeal remains a cornerstone, our programs have expanded to include Go Bags for children entering crisis or temporary care, as well as gifts, vouchers, clothing, and supplies for children supported by care and protection agencies, domestic-violence refuges, Indigenous organisations, and community services.
Previous version of our logo
In recent years, we’ve been fortunate to also provide school holiday activities, bikes, and trampolines to encourage fun, connection, and outdoor play — helping children feel included in the everyday experiences so many take for granted.
Although we can’t yet fulfil our full wishlist, we’re working to grow our reach so that more children can experience stability and joy when they need it most. Each year, we receive increasing requests from community groups and frontline workers seeking help for children and families who need a little extra support to feel safe and valued.
Winners of the 2025 Volunteering ACT Community Support Award
Powered by our community
Everything we do is only possible thanks to the generosity of our community — from our dedicated members and volunteers, to our incredible sponsors and donors. We rely on people who choose to give their time, skills, and resources to be able to provide for our local children in need.
Our sponsors and partners make it possible for us to reach more children each year. To learn more about the organisations who help us, or to explore becoming one of our valued sponsors, please visit our Sponsors page.
Want to know how else to help us make a difference?
