“The community of 300 individuals will be a diverse mix, including tech company owners and those experiencing homelessness,” he explained.

“A wonderful aspect of this venue is that it welcomes everyone. It’s a place where those facing financial challenges can connect with others who wish to spread the joy of Christmas and share the love of Jesus,” he added.

Wesley Mission is organizing a free Christmas Day lunch aimed at uniting people from various backgrounds. Source: Supplied

Wesley Mission is hosting a free Christmas Day lunch to bring together people from all walks of life. Source: Supplied

The mission is also running a Christmas appeal, calling on community members to donate in order to provide emergency housing for survivors of domestic violence.

In 2025, Wesley Mission helped 2,490 people across New South Wales who were experiencing or at risk of homeless, according to its annual report.

Offering a sense of community over Christmas

Its staff also work hard to make Christmas a special time of community for those living in Civic accommodation, CEO Annie Doyle told SBS News.

Katy Williams (left) and Annie Doyle recently took part in Civic Disability Services’ Christmas lunch. Source: Supplied

“We have people with significant disability, intellectual disability predominantly. But a lot of them are now orphans because they’ve been in care for a long time,” she said.

In the lead-up to Christmas, support workers have helped clients decorate their homes and enjoy other festive activities like singing carols and creating Christmas cards.

“What’s most important is that we all sit down together and have a shared meal. We just love to have clients experience what it feels to be in a Christmas environment,” operations manager Katy Williams said.

Loneliness can intensify over the holidays

For those spending Christmas away from family, friends or community, it can be a particularly isolating time, she told SBS News.