Students from St Catherine’s Catholic College braved the cold last Friday night to get a taste of what it is like to be homeless in support of the 2017 Vinnies Winter Appeal.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
They were treated to meal of soup, rice and bread, heard from those who work closely with the homeless in Singleton, and then the older students slept on the concrete in the quad area with their sleeping bags and blankets.
The student council organised the event with the assistance of teachers Leanne O’Brien (REC and Ministry Co-Ordinator), Des Thomas (RSC and Ministry Co-Ordinator) and Megan Smith (SRC teacher).
It was a first for the school has organised such an event and it allowed students to gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be homeless.
Ms Smith says prior to the night students were asked to collect sponsorship money and they are to be congratulated on their efforts.
And, so far they have raised about $2000.
“After the meal, students gathered in the hall to listen to a presentation by Kirrily and Aaron Donohue who work closely with those who experience homelessness in Singleton. They spoke about their experiences in working with the homeless in the area, and the work they do in delivering food. What was interesting to note was that there are at least 120 people who experience homelessness,” she says.
She would also like to thank Singleton Heights RSC who kindly offered to sponsor the event with a donation of $500.
Along with:
- Singleton HiFi for loaning the school a movie projector;
- St Catherine’s P&F who provided food for the evening meal;
- and the supervising teachers.