Th exercise is part of the school’s Game Changer activities which is a comprehensive Catholic youth ministry program for students in Marist schools focused on faith formation and service to the community.
Vinnies Vans are outreach services operating across Sydney, that provide meals and snacks, blankets, toiletries, hot beverages, and, most importantly, companionship and connection to people doing it tough or experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
The school’s Professional Officer Helen Salamis who organises the activity, says they collect food from St Vinnies’ kitchen in Lewisham and then head to their run which is in the Bayside/Eastlakes area.
“It’s a regular activity on a Monday night so there are always plenty of eager, grateful people waiting for us, many living in Housing Department accommodation or sleeping rough in the area,” she said.
“It’s a real eye-opener for students who feel good supporting the less fortunate with food and other supplies, a hot tea or coffee and a nice chat.
“Our students are always looking for ways to help others, demonstrating their faith, and are very keen to be involved which is wonderful.”
Students roll in to aid battlers with food, support for St Vinnies project
THERE is no shortage of eager volunteers once a term when Trinity Catholic College Auburn students are called upon to take part in the Vinnies Van food drive to support and connect with the homeless and disadvantaged.