Vinnies Winter Appeal: Call for donations
As morning temperatures this week plunge to as low as 3C, our thoughts turn to those less fortunate in our community.
Speaking at today’s whole-school assembly, Assistant Principal: Religious Identity & Mission Angela Collins urged the Blackfriars community to get behind the 2024 Vinnies Winter Appeal.
“I can say with confidence that we are a very generous community. That’s been demonstrated over so many years,” Ms Collins said.
“I ask you to think of just the other day and how bitterly cold it was in the morning. And then we think of the wonderful work that Vinnies does to support those who are struggling, those who are in financial hardship, those who are experiencing homelessness.
“And homelessness isn’t just the people on the streets. There are the couch surfers, the people who live in their cars. There are people who can’t have a hot meal, and I am sure we all appreciate, on a cold winter’s night, going home to a lovely hot dinner.”
Blackfriars is currently accepting donations of non-perishable food items, blankets, beanies, scarves, gloves and socks, which will be donated to our local St Vincent de Paul Chapter.
According to Vinnies SA, 7428 people are experiencing homelessness this winter.
“And as the weather is getting colder, sleeping on the streets is a real struggle. These cold winter nights are the toughest and loneliest time of the year for people living on our streets as they struggle to find shelter, food, safety and warmth,” Vinnies SA said.
Ms Collins said donations to the Winter Appeal would “make a big difference in the lives of many in Adelaide”.
Meanwhile, Blackfriars today welcomed back old scholar Callum Flanagan (BPS’17), who accepted a cheque for $2022, raised through the school’s Wear It PINK! In May campaign.
Throughout May, students swapped their school ties for pink ties – and even pink bow ties – as we shone a light on breast cancer.
All money raised through the purchase of the pink accessories was donated to the Adelaide-based Australian Breast Cancer Research.
Mr Flanagan is the Community Fundraising Coordinator at The Hospital Research Foundation Group, which includes Australian Breast Cancer Research.
“Thank you to all of you for fundraising for Australian Breast Cancer Research,” Mr Flanagan told today’s assembly.
“It’s fantastic to see you, the students, giving back and supporting various charities.
“You should all feel very proud of giving back to the community and I hope this is something that will continue on into the future.”
Blackfriars will hold a “blue” fundraiser later this year, raising money for Australian Prostate Cancer.
- Main photo by ev on Unsplash
Want more news?
Keep up-to-date with all the happenings in and around Blackfriars on our socials.
