With December upon us, it's time to break out the Christmas decorations.
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BIG W is calling on Australian families to 'Bring on the Love' this Christmas by adding one extra decoration to their homes - a heart in the window to remind their neighbours and wider community that they are loved and not alone.
BIG W's national act of love, designed to spread joy and connect communities, comes as new research* highlights that this year:
- 12.8 million Aussies (64%) won't spend Christmas with family and friends, yet;
- 1 in 4 are feeling more connected to their communities since Covid and;
- Around 1 million Aussies are even planning to spend Christmas Day with neighbours for the first time!
TV personality Ada Nicodemou is one Aussie mum who agrees that community spirit keeps her going as Christmas plans with family are put on hold.
"This Christmas just won't be the same as my family and closest friends can't travel to be with us for our annual celebrations as we'd hoped, which is especially hard after being separated for so long," she said.
"But we are looking to create new traditions with those around us."
Like many, Ada loves community initiatives that create a sense of happiness and togetherness and is rallying Australian's to join in the BIG W movement.
"My son, Johnas, and I had so much fun making our heart and hanging it in the window. It's a simple gesture that really means a lot to us, and we hope it brings a smile to those who see it," she said.
"We'd love to see every family pop a heart in their windows as a reminder to everyone that they are loved this Christmas."
BIG W acting managing director Teresa Rendo said BIG W store teams were also getting behind the movement by hanging hearts throughout their stores for customers to enjoy, but more importantly were collectively aiming to fundraise a quarter of a million dollars for charity by Christmas, which BIG W will match.
"We've enjoyed a long history supporting the major Children's Hospitals around Australia, and this year we're especially humbled to be bringing much needed funds that will make a real difference for families at such an important time," she said.
To make a festive heart like Ada's, head to bigw.com.au for a tutorial with the BIG W design team or get creative with decorations or arts and crafts from around the home, sharing your hearts on social media: tag @bigwaustralia and #bringonthelove.
*BIG W conducted a survey through YouGov. Total sample size was 1,026 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between October 14-18, 2020. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all Australian adults (aged 18+).
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