At Hawkesbury Living Aged Care, heartfelt moments of interaction between the young children of Ambrose School Age Care and the elderly residents are blossoming into something truly special, a beautiful intergenerational connection.
During the winter school holidays in July, the halls of Hawkesbury Living were filled with laughter, chatter, and the joyful sounds of play as children from Ambrose Vacation Care at Chisholm Bligh Park, St Matthew’s Windsor and St Monica’s Richmond made their second visit to the residents. The children’s arrival brought a wave of warmth and excitement, as they came bearing classic games like chess and snakes and ladders, along with craft supplies and paints, ready for a morning of creativity and companionship.
The children also brought handwritten letters and cards, each one a personal message of friendship and care, given to the residents as keepsakes of their time together.
“Our residents are always excited when children visit or when they receive anything from them,” says Niki Sumegi, Hawkesbury Living Leisure & Lifestyle Coordinator. “It fills their hearts with warmth and gives them something truly special to look forward to.”
This beautiful initiative was brought to life by Kaitlin Weeks, the Educational Leader at Ambrose St Matthew’s Windsor, who fondly recalls visiting Hawkesbury Living as a child to sing in the choir. Wanting to recreate those meaningful experiences for a new generation, Kaitlin plays a key role in turning the idea into reality.
Children from Ambrose Vacation Care with residents of Hawkesbury Living Aged Care. Image: Ambrose/Supplied
“It’s a special opportunity for the children at Ambrose to discover the joy they can bring to others through the simple act of sharing time together,” Kaitlin says. “Having visited this very nursing home as a child, I know how meaningful these moments can be, for both the children and the residents.”
The power of Intergenerational bonds
Niki shares the profound benefits of these intergenerational moments:
“Intergenerational connections bring joy, purpose, and a sense of belonging. They give residents a chance to share their life experiences, values and patience and respect for older generations. It fosters mutual understanding and breaks down barriers between age groups.”
Keira Lahoud, the Service Coordinator at Ambrose St Matthew’s Windsor, who helped coordinate the initiative, also reflects on its impact.
“Through this ongoing exchange, the children learned the value of sustaining relationships and offering kindness not just once, but consistently. They realised that their words and drawings could brighten someone’s day, and that those connections go both ways – the residents also brought joy, wisdom and a deep sense of value to the children. It’s been enriching for both sides.”
Keira adds: “These moments beautifully reflect our Catholic identity and core values of respect, encouragement, and care. They’re a living example of faith in action, where love is shown through service, and community is built through compassion.”
Children from Ambrose Vacation Care with residents of Hawkesbury Living Aged Care. Image: Ambrose/Supplied
The children themselves expressed heartfelt reasons for their involvement.
Lucas and Bailey share that it’s important for the residents “so they don’t feel lonely”, while Tora says she hopes it “makes them feel warm inside because they know someone cares about them”.
Keeping the connection alive
To maintain the connection beyond the holidays, the children have continued writing letters to the residents throughout the school term.
“The residents were genuinely touched by the letters,” says Niki. “Many smiled as they read them, and some even asked for their letters to be kept by their bedside as keepsakes. It brought a real sense of joy and connection to their day and reminded them of their own grandchildren and school memories.”
Looking ahead
The connection between the Ambrose children and Hawkesbury Living continues to flourish and both sides are excited to explore more opportunities for intergenerational engagement.
In a world that often feels fast-paced and disconnected, these letters and visits serve as gentle reminders of the power of kindness, the beauty of shared stories, and the joy that comes from reaching across generations. Guided by our Catholic mission, these moments reflect the call to serve others with compassion, build meaningful relationships, and live out Christ’s love through care and connection. _
Learn more about Ambrose Early Years Education and Care by visiting www.ambrose.org.au
Zoe Cartwright is Marketing and Communications Coordinator for Community Ventures.
This article was originally published in the 2025 Season of Creation | Spring edition of the Catholic Outlook Magazine. You can read the digital version here or pick up a copy in your local parish.
