What is the Blanket and Beanie Appeal?

Imagine this: It’s the middle of winter, it’s midnight and it’s freezing cold. You’re alone, outside, with nothing to keep you warm. The sad truth is that this is the reality for not just one person, but thousands of people across Sydney and Parramatta.

To make a difference, schools from all over Sydney are uniting to help people experiencing homelessness this winter. The Blanket and Beanie Appeal (BABA) is run annually during the month of May in local schools and businesses. You can bring blankets, beanies, scarves, adult jumpers, adult pants and women’s sanitary items to your participating schools donation box, where they will be sorted and distributed to those who need it most.

Originating from Baulkham Hills Baptist Church, the BABA first started at Pennant Hills High School in 2016. In 2017, it expanded to include William Clarke College. The BABA grew, expanding to 6 schools, then 12, then 14 and then 20. In 2024, the appeal operated in 22 local primary and high schools, before expanding to 25 schools in 2025. Since its inception, the BABA has collected and distributed over 12,500 donations to people experiencing homelessness in Sydney.

In 2026, we’re partnering with 30 schools - the biggest BABA ever!

FAQ’s

Where do the donations go?

Our dedicated team of volunteers collect each school’s donation boxes and deliver them to a sorting location, where a team of over 80 volunteers sort, count and package the donations for distribution. We partner with amazing charities that distribute the donations amongst their networks, including Mission Australia, Hope Street and Living Hope, to ensure that each item ends up in the hands of those that need them most.

How can I get my school involved?

We want to work with local primary and high schools in Sydney. If you would like to get your school involved, fill out the form on our contact page or send us an email at admin@blanketandbeanieappeal.com.

Child Safety & Safe Communication Policy

The Blanket and Beanie Appeal (BABA) is committed to the safety, welfare and wellbeing of all children and young people involved in it’s activities. The BABA operates in alignment with NSW Child Safe Standards and has clear policies and procedures in place to:

  • Promote child-safe practices

  • Maintain professional boundaries

  • Ensure transparent and accountable communication

  • Respond appropriately to concerns or incidents

All BABA Volunteer Team Members are required to comply with strict communication, conduct and safeguarding guidelines. Student engagement occurs only through approved channels and under defined oversight arrangements. Concerns relating to child safety are taken seriously and managed in accordance with the BABA’s Child Safety and Safe Communication Policy. All team members have a valid WWCC. If you have any concerns, you can speak with our Safe Ministry Coordinator at admin@blanketandbeanieappeal.com.