This Thankathon, we’re celebrating the incredible supporters who make The Pyjama Foundation’s work possible. From volunteers to donors, each person plays a vital role in changing the lives of children in care.
This week, we met with Kate Morris, a devoted supporter who has been part of our journey since 2007. Kate began as a Pyjama Angel and keeps in touch with the person she mentored nearly 2 decades on! She was then our Sunshine Coast Coordinator and is now a long-time donor. Kate’s impact on the lives of vulnerable children in our community has been immeasurable. Join us as we chat with Kate about her journey, her generosity, and the power of kindness.
How did you first connect with The Pyjama Foundation and what drew you to support us?
"I first heard of The Pyjama Foundation at a luncheon in Caloundra where Bron [The Pyjama Foundation’s Founder and CEO] was the guest speaker – as you know, she is inspiring – and the whole concept seemed so simple and yet I could see how effective it was potentially going to be... I had always loved reading to my children, and they were now of an age where they didn’t need me to read to them anymore and so I thought it would be lovely to read to someone else – and someone who perhaps really needed that."
You often support the Foundation with In-Kind Donations, can you explore how that happened and why you felt inclined to regularly give so generously?
"I give to [The Foundation] because I can, and I can also see the benefits that this money brings to the kids in the program. Being the Sunshine Coast Coordinator for so long [I] really got to see how every child is helped by having a Pyjama Angel of their own. Then there is the other side of the coin where the money is used to train volunteers, and I know that the volunteers gain so much from their role in The Pyjama Foundation. It is just a win-win situation!"
What do you hope your contributions achieve for the children in our programs?
"I hope that the children in our program can gain some self-esteem and confidence and feel supported to live a full life and reach their potential – something that they may not have been able to do before having a Pyjama Angel. I feel that Pyjama Angels can open their eyes to a variety of life experiences and show/model what could be."
Can you share a story of the impact that your generosity has helped The Foundation achieve?
"I am not sure if it is just my generosity but what The Pyjama Foundation does on a whole promotes generosity and the good vibes that you get from feeling you have helped someone. I have been able to help with my boy, C* who is now 25, to secure him a home to himself with carers in an independent living arrangement... So, his life is very safe and secure."
What would you say to someone considering supporting The Pyjama Foundation?
"To everyone considering becoming a Pyjama Angel – please do immediately, what are you waiting for?! I have often heard people say they are worried about getting too attached to a child and then they might move on, and they won’t see them again. This could be true but think of all you can give before this MIGHT and only might happen. For me there is no downside to becoming a Pyjama Angel."
Kate’s journey from Pyjama Angel to team member to regular donor is a testament to her unwavering belief in our vision of a world of unlimited opportunity for all children. Her generosity has touched countless lives, creating opportunities and support networks for children who need them most. As she so passionately encourages, becoming a Pyjama Angel is a chance to make a real difference—one story, one child, and one act of kindness at a time. Thank you, Kate, for your dedication and for reminding us of the profound impact we can have when we choose to give.
