An Illawarra woman named the region's volunteer of the year fears vulnerable families her charity helps will face mounting difficulties in the approach to Christmas. 

Gloria Rohov says Anglicare has made an emergency appeal for donations following a drastic federal government cut to funding that she says might lead to the needy missing essentials.

“They risk missing out on material and financial aid, such as food, rent assistance and other support including financial counselling because the funding we’ve relied on to deliver these services has been cut,” she says.

“I'm particularly concerned about the impact on the lead-up to Christmas, a peak time of need for many families we support.

"Anglicare gives extra food and make up a Christmas hamper and provides toys for children whose families can't afford it. They really do need donations – they always need donations, but this particular time is a real crisis."

Gloria, of Thirroul, was named 2025 Illawarra volunteer of the year, recognising her efforts in supporting vulnerable residents facing hardship.

She says the award was a complete surprise and attributes it to the work of the entire team of volunteers at Anglicare.

"It's the first award I've won in my life," she says. "I don't feel as though it should just be for me. Other people are doing the same thing and doing it well. I'm only really doing what all the other volunteers there are doing."

Gloria began volunteering at Anglicare 12 years ago after leaving clerical work at Telstra, wanting to give back to her community.

"When I was at work, I was sitting in an office thinking, 'I'm not doing anything worthwhile',” she says.

“I saw a notice in the church bulletin that they wanted volunteers at Anglicare, I went in, and I’ve kept going back since.”

Gloria dedicates one day a week to Anglicare, assessing people for food and bill assistance through the Energy Payment Assistance Scheme. She helps them manage various household bills, such as electricity, gas, water and phone expenses. She coordinates emergency food parcels, assists non-English-speaking clients and mentors other volunteers.

“The advantage of us doing it is that we can advocate for them,” Gloria says.

“We make sure ... their pension numbers are on their account so that they can get the rebates and things like that,

“Originally we used a little notebook of vouchers to write out. But then it went online, so fortunately because I had the skills from working in an office, I was able to do that.”

After more than a decade of volunteering, Gloria continues to show up to Anglicare each week.

“It’s just nice to be there – the staff are really nice and they’re really great people to work for. They make you feel welcome, it’s enjoyable and I’ve made friends there,” she says.

“For me, it’s great to know that you’re helping someone in something that’s worthwhile.”

To donate to Anglicare's appeal, call 1300 111 278. Those in need of help can call 8624 8600.