This Anti-Poverty Week (11–17 October 2026), discover the full range of the City of Tea Tree Gully’s free activities, and their benefit to the community.

Research conducted by the Australian Council of Social Service and UNSW Sydney in 2025 shows 14.2% of Australians live below the poverty line. Further, that this equated to one in seven adults and one in six children.

One of the initiatives Council runs to help those who are most vulnerable is the Scrappy Dolls group at Holden Hill Community Centre.

The group meets every second and fourth Thursday of the month. Made up entirely of volunteers, the group sews dolls from donated fabrics. The dolls are then carefully packaged in cellophane bags with their own birth certificate and donated to local charities that support families at risk. They then find their forever home with a child in need.

Scrappy Doll volunteer Bev Dickson said it was all about giving back to community.

“So many families are doing it tough,” Ms Dickson said.

“For some people, buying a new doll or a toy for a child might come in the luxury bracket now, and it shouldn't.

“Every kid deserves a happy childhood.”

Fellow volunteer Carolyn Evans also said she wanted to put her sewing skills towards a good cause.

“I’ve been sewing all my life,” Ms Evans said.

“If people can’t afford to buy dolls, these kids will get a unique doll or soft toy that no one else will have, and they can be proud hopefully of what they’ve been given.”

Not only are many City of Tea Tree Gully events and programs free, but they cater to a range of ages, abilities and interests. They’re also a great way to form social connections and maintain mental wellbeing.

Find all our free events and activities

Learn more about the Scrappy Doll sewing group

Photo credit: Fellow Scrappy Doll sewing group volunteers Lily Larocca and Christine Goss enjoy using their sewing skills to bring joy to children in need.