In a heart-warming show of solidarity, Slovenian police officers and soldiers once again joined forces for Ana's Little Star humanitarian action, collecting over 10 tonnes of food and hygiene products in just a few weeks! Demonstrating their commitment to helping those in need, they delivered the aid packages on 5 December 2024, bringing early holiday joy to many disadvantaged families and individuals.
Ana Lukner Roljić, the founder of Ana's Little Star, received the packages on behalf of the charity. The handover was organized ahead of St. Nicholas Day, ensuring the parcels reached recipients just in time for the holiday season. The parcels were formally handed over by Slovenian Armed Forces Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Nina Raduha and Deputy Director General of the Police Igor Ciperle.
"I am incredibly touched," said Ana Lukner Roljić in her opening remarks of the handover ceremony. "Actions like this are truly remarkable because they allow us to help so many individuals, families, and children. Sadly, the hardships people face are worsening every year. Over the past 15 years, we have observed this growing struggle. You would not believe it, but oftentimes, it is the children who reach out for help, as their parents face dire situations. I find this deeply saddening. However, I am also moved by the kindness and generosity of people who come together, driven by values of compassion and love for one another. These individuals understand that any of us could find ourselves in need tomorrow, and that it is therefore our shared human duty to help each other," said the founder of Ana's Little Star.
"In this day and age, it is important to be respectful of each other and to preserve the dignity of individuals in dire situations. Actions like this, where the Slovenian Armed Forces and the Police unite for a common cause, are of outmost importance. Holiday cheer is not about buying presents—it is about togetherness, health, and ensuring everyone has the means to live decently. Let this holiday season remind us of these true values," said Ana Lukner Roljić.
A Month-Long Drive for a Meaningful Cause
The food and supplies drive took place between 11 and 29 November 2024 at the premises of the Slovenian Armed Forces and the Police. Each package weighed around 25 kilograms and contained essential food items such as oil, vinegar, flour, corn meal, rice, long-life milk, sugar, salt, pasta, cereals, tomato sauce or other prepared sauces and dishes, tinned or pickled vegetables, tinned fish, pâtés, marmalade or hazelnut spreads, honey, ready-made soups and puddings, and more. Families also received hygiene products and household cleaning supplies.
To add a touch of holiday cheer, the packages also included treats like biscuits, chocolates, sweets and savoury snacks, which are sure to bring joy and smiles to children during the festive season.