On Tuesday 13th February, as Youth Engagement Leaders, we represented the College at John Therry Catholic College for the Diocesan Project Compassion Launch. Project Compassion encourages Australians to raise much-needed funds to help alleviate poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity in the most vulnerable and marginalised communities in the world.

Bishop Brian Mascord along with representatives from Caritas Australia had launched the project for 2024 by leading us in prayer and sharing enlightening stories of how Caritas has helped improve the lives of many disadvantaged families. One story included the daily struggle of a single mother of 8 living in South Africa. In order to obtain access to water, she was required to lock her children in the house for their own safety and bring her youngest with her while she left for her trip to bring back water for her family. She walked for 24 hours, including an overnight break, with her child on her back just to bring home water that was barely in a drinkable condition. However, with the help of Project Compassion, enough funds were raised to install a water tank in her village to provide easier access to water.

It can be so easy to take what we have for granted without realising the struggles of those surrounding us. We ask that you please donate to Caritas Australia this Lent to make a difference for many lives across Australia and abroad. 

- Thalia Singh