Students, directors and volunteers from the Cyprus Community of NSW joined A Touch of Kindness in Martin Place on Wednesday, June 17, helping provide food, clothing and support to more than 200 people experiencing homelessness and hardship.
Students from the Cyprus Community Youth Dance School and Greek School worked alongside directors, youth members, subcommittee representatives and volunteers.
The initiative formed part of the Cyprus Community’s commitment to philanthropy and its continuing support for A Touch of Kindness, which assists vulnerable people across Sydney through meals and clothing.
Volunteers spent the evening serving food, handing out warm clothing and speaking with people experiencing homelessness and financial hardship. The growing number seeking support highlighted the cost-of-living and housing pressures affecting Sydneysiders.
Michael Kyriacou, Honorary President of the Cyprus Community of NSW, attended the outreach and helped lead the volunteers.
“This is what our Community has always been about – looking after people, standing beside those who are struggling and providing assistance wherever it is needed,” Mr Kyriacou said.
“For many decades, the Cyprus Community has taken care of its own people during difficult times. However, our responsibility does not end with our own membership. We are part of the wider Australian community, and when our fellow Australians need help, we must stand beside them.”
Mr Kyriacou said involving children and young people was important because it encouraged the next generation to understand service, compassion and social responsibility.
“Our young people were not simply observing. They were serving meals, distributing clothing and speaking with people,” he said.
“They learned that community leadership is not about holding a title. It is about being present, helping others and showing kindness.”
The Martin Place outreach is part of the Cyprus Community’s philanthropic program, supported through its Volunteer Hub.
The Volunteer Hub is open to Community members, families, young people and the public. It allows volunteers to register and contribute their time, skills, goods or professional expertise to charities and causes supported by the Community.
The Community’s assistance is not limited to financial donations. Support may also include fundraising, donated goods, volunteer labour, promotion and practical help.
Through the Volunteer Hub, the Cyprus Community has expanded its reach beyond the Cypriot and Greek-Australian communities and into mainstream Australian charitable life. It also provides a pathway for young people to participate in community service.
Kyriacos Panayi, Honorary Secretary of the Cyprus Community of NSW, said the evening reflected the true meaning of community.
“Community is about helping people, engaging with people and being present when support is needed,” Mr Panayi said.
“The contribution from our students, directors, youth members, subcommittees and volunteers was an outstanding example of compassion, teamwork and service.”
Members of the public stopped to congratulate the volunteers and acknowledge their efforts.
The Cyprus Community said the evening was a reminder that change can begin with simple acts – a warm meal, clothing, a conversation and the knowledge that someone cares.
People interested in volunteering can register through the Cyprus Community Volunteer Hub at the https://thecyprusclub.org.au/volunteer-hub/
