When you’re constantly worried about where you’ll sleep tonight, there’s not much energy left to do the things you love, like barrack for your favourite team. By providing a safe and comfortable home, HammondCare Darlinghurst opens doors for residents to be included again.

For Darlinghurst residents, the favourite footy teams are South Sydney Rabbitohs and Sydney Roosters, and many have been fans of their team for decades. But in some cases, due to poverty, trauma and social isolation, it’s been many years since they’ve seen a game.

So when resident Rob started chatting with Pastoral Care Coordinator Mark, about his love of the Rabbitohs and favourite players of yesteryear, Mark saw an opportunity to put a big smile on Rob's face.

He arranged for former Rabbitoh Jason Death to visit Rob, swapping footy stories together on his balcony. Jason played three seasons with the South Sydney team (2002-04) and Rob was delighted to meet Jason in his own home, and to receive a special Rabbitohs jersey.

A visit by seven Roosters NRL players created plenty of excitement among residents and care team members, regardless of footy affiliations!

It was a team effort to take the Roosters group around the home – with Specialised Carers, a Volunteer Coordinator and even Maintenance Manager David helping out.

‘It was such a great day – the players spent genuine time talking with residents, who loved it,’ David said. ‘Even the residents wearing Rabbitohs jerseys had a great time.’

‘One resident happily shared his knowledge of horse racing, golf and his love of the St George Dragons! Meanwhile another managed to get a kiss from every single player!’

And another resident, who is often quieter and withdrawn, arrived 10 minutes early for the visit and was there to the end, chatting happily with the group.

But it’s not all about footy. St Andrew’s Cathedral School and its students are well-known to anyone living near Sydney’s centre.

The school has been connecting with residents of Darlinghurst for three years, including giving handwritten Christmas cards and presents to every resident. For people who may have missed out on Christmas altogether in the past, these personal greetings are a special treat.

The students took the connection further, with an ensemble arriving one lunchtime with a violin, cello, saxophone and two bassoons for a concert! Not only was the music enjoyed, but for residents who often have little or no family, this intergenerational contact is especially meaningful.