Citizen of the Year Jack Van Der Zwart with Mayor Steve Holland.
A long-time foster carer and a young man dedicated to helping the homeless have been honoured in Mornington Peninsula Shire’s 2023 Australia Day Local Awards.
Jack Van Der Zwart was named Citizen of the Year for his compassionate and selfless work, including caring for foster children, cooking for the homeless in Rosebud, and providing meals to those in need. For nearly four decades, Jack and his wife Arina opened their hearts and home to 22 foster children, offering them a safe and loving environment during a crucial time in their lives.
Jack’s ability to connect with young people and provide them with the support they need to succeed is truly remarkable. He goes above and beyond to ensure their well-being and has maintained close relationships with many of the foster children he and his wife took in.
For five years, Jack cooked as a volunteer with a friend at a church, providing 400-500 meals a week to the homeless and those struggling. Despite having little materially, Jack values the richness of a caring and loving family above all else. He is an extraordinary man who embodies the meaning of compassion and generosity.
Jack’s love and commitment to helping those in need is inspirational. He is a shining example of what it means to be a true Citizen of the Year. Jack’s life is a testament to the power of kindness, generosity, and selflessness.
Josh Berry was named Young Citizen of the Year for his Two Pairs Each initiative aimed at aiding the homeless population. His goal is to provide two pairs for each of the 23,000 homeless individuals in Victoria.
Josh started the project when he was just nine and a half years old – he’s now 17 – and over the past seven and a half years he has collected and distributed more than 39,000 pairs of new socks with the support of donors and business partners. Through the program, Josh raises awareness about the facts and challenges of homelessness and gives a human touch to this increasing social problem.
In addition to his work for the homeless community, Josh is active in various other community activities such as Junior Fire Brigade, Sailability (supporting people with disabilities to sail), and Air Force Cadets. His leadership serves as an example of the positive impact one individual can have with a simple idea.
According to the homeless community, clean and warm socks are one of the most essential items. While people often donate blankets and jackets, they rarely donate socks.
To find out more about Two Pairs Each and how you can help Josh attain his goal, visit www.2pairseach.com.au
Young Citizen of the Year Josh Berry with Mayor Steve Holland.
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