A pop-up “toy store” which tells the story of toys left behind by children forced to flee their homes has opened at Melbourne Central shopping centre in the heart of the Victorian capital this week in an effort to shine a light on the plight of the world’s 30 million displaced children.
‘The Lost Toy Store’ has been created by artist Emma Davies for World Vision Australia and aims to provide a point of connection between shoppers and displaced children around the world.
World Vision Australia’s The Lost Toy Store in Melbourne Central shopping centre. PICTURE: Supplied.
It is hoped shoppers will take the time to pause at the installation and pass on a “message of generosity” to displaced children and their families for Christmas. The messages will initially be displayed as part of the exhibition and then translated and sent to children affected by conflict and disaster in World Vision-supported communities.
Zane Kuramoto, a spokesperson for World Vision, said that toys provide children with comfort and security, even in the most desperate situations.
“Every year, hundreds of thousands of children around the world are displaced – by conflict, political upheaval, famine, flood or other natural disasters,” he said. “And when they flee – or their homes are destroyed – their most treasured possessions are often lost or left behind, including their favourite toys and teddies.”
Kuramoto, who recently accompanied AFL footballer and World Vision “goodwill ambassador” Tom Phillips on a trip to Rwanda, added that while it can be very upsetting for the children to lose their toys, many are at risk of losing far more – “their safety, security, and their right to an education”.
“They risk becoming child brides, losing their childhoods, and at worst, they risk losing their lives.”
Phillips, who plays for AFL club Collingwood, said that one of the things which struck him on his recent visit to Rwanda “was that children were playing with everyday items they had fashioned into toys, like makeshift soccer balls”.
“I also heard their stories of toys they had left behind or had lost. It was heartbreaking, but at the same time, hopeful, and reinforced the importance of play to children, their security, and wellbeing,” he said. “Visiting ‘The Lost Toy Store’ this Christmas will provide an insight into what these children have lost – and the toys are only the tip of the iceberg.”
‘The Lost Toy Store’ is located under the clock at Melbourne Central until 23rd December. Share your photos and selfies taken at the installation under the hashtag #LostToyStore.
