Mum on a mission to make Christmas special for those without a roof over their heads

A Sydney mum and small business owner was determined to feed and clothe 200 Australians doing it tough this Christmas and that’s exactly what she did along with 25 other volunteers and businesses on Sunday 17th December.

The Big Christmas Feed, was the brainchild of 34-year-old Simone Azzi who works as a real estate agent in Sydney’s Inner West. She’s enlisted the help of other incredible businesses such as Harris Farm, Gelato Messina, The Little Marionette Coffee + Char Grill Charlies just to name a few, in this ambitious and generous mission as well as a fundraising campaign via social media.

The Big Christmas Feed was held in Woolloomooloo on Sunday  (17th December) from 5pm and was enjoyed by 170-200 disadvantaged man, women & children all there for some Christmas joy. (Pictures attached of event, available in Hi-Res on request)

Hundreds will sleep rough in Sydney this festive season, with countless more in temporary accommodation embarking on a new year in uncertain circumstances.

“Mental illness and addiction is a problem I understand well. My younger brother fell on dark times and took his own life at the age of 26 ” Simone said. 

Those in need had access to a mobile shower van, a hair salon tent offering free haircuts and shaves, a well-stocked pop up pantry, a variety of shoes, blanket, pillows and of course the incredible dinner and desert spread.

“For a long time, I wanted to do something but wasn’t sure how to execute it, this year I just thought I’m going to do this and its been incredible, the generosity and offers of support from so many has been overwhelming and I have been inundated with support from individuals and businesses wanting to get on board for our next 2018 event”

The mum of two has single-handedly driven this project, enlisting the support of organisations including Harris Farm Markets, Australian fashion house P.E Nation, Gelato Messina, Woofys, Seagrass Hospitality Group and many more.

Harris Farm Potts Point has donated 100kg of fresh fruit

“At Harris Farm Markets, our purpose is to reconnect us all to the natural joy of food so we’re thrilled to do just that by getting involved in The Big Christmas Feed and helping out those who aren’t as fortunate.” – Eddie, Store Manager at Harris Farm Markets Potts Point

 Simone approached Australian media personality and television presenter Sally Obermeder via Instagram, she was incredibly excited about the event and attended Sunday’s feed with her beautiful 6 year old Annabelle.

 Also heavily involved, one of the most influential duos in the Australian fashion industry Pip Edwards and Claire Tregoning, founders of luxe sportswear label P.E Nation and recently awarded the Best Emerging Designer at the Australian Fashion Laureate Awards.

Australian fashion house P.E Nation has donated baseball caps, blankets and pillows to the event.

"At this time of year, we can get lost in the happiness and joy that is Christmas. However, for many - it can be the hardest time of their lives. I feel really passionate about supporting the parts of our community doing it tougher than most this season.  It's especially important for me to show and teach my son the value of giving, to be conscious and mindful of others less fortunate." – Pip Edwards, Co-founder P.E Nation

Simone Azzi and her team of volunteers executed an amazing afternoon with nothing going to waste all remaining food & pantry items were taken to Rough Edges Café in Darlinghurst for more people to enjoy.

“In my day job as a real estate agent, I’m in the business of helping privileged individuals and families find homes, but I’m well-aware that for many Australians, a healthy meal and somewhere safe to sleep that night is all they can hope for. It really is the most incredible feeling to give back and really be grateful for the blessings we have” said Simone.

The event was a huge success with plans underway for one in May 2018. If any individuals or business would like to get involved Simone can be contacted on 0433 236 281 or via email simone.azzi@belleproperty.com

MEDIA ENQUIRIES: 
Simone Azzi T 0433 236 261 E Simone.Azzi@belleproperty.com