A Bag of Love

We are filled with gratitude as we reflect on the incredible support and compassion shown during our ‘Bag of Love for the Homeless’ fundraising initiative. Sandra Bahlij, President Hindmarsh Conference, St Vincent de Paul Society writes, “Many Special and Grateful Thanks to all Lasallian Stars, Reception, Year 1 and 2 Students and their Families who have so generously prepared ‘Bags of Love’ for people in need. In each bag there is something warm to wear or something to eat. These ‘Bags of Love’ will be distributed by our local St Vincent de Paul Society and will be very much appreciated by each person who receives them.”

To our school community, your generosity in donating essential items, time, and resources has been truly remarkable. Your contributions have enabled us to create meaningful, tangible impacts, bringing warmth and comfort to those facing hardships this winter.

A special note of appreciation goes out to our dedicated packing party volunteers  – the mothers and grandmothers, Sandra Bahlij and our own Faith Service Community Leaders. Your enthusiasm and tireless efforts in assembling each ‘Bag of Love’ were instrumental in turning this dream into a reality. With every item packed and every handwritten card added, you have infused these bags with the spirit of kindness and compassion that defines our community.

Our goal was to assemble 88 Bags of Love. With your generosity, we have filled 144 bags and more donations are arriving daily. The ‘Bags of Love’ support three local organisations, St Vincent de Paul Society, Catherine House, and Hutt Street Centre. These three organisations are places of connection and support where people facing homelessness are empowered to rebuild their lives.

From the Community

Schooling plays a central role in the formation of critical thinking and social responsibility from a young age. The FSCL reflect on the experience:

“When I packed the bags of love I pictured who was going to open the bag and if they’d be happy about it. Every bag contained toiletries, food, some had toys, and water bottles.” (Elijah, FSCL)

“When filling the bags I felt happy. This is because I knew that a homeless person would be so happy to get these things … it was a good feeling to see the big achievement.” (Aleksander, FSCL)

“The packing party was a great experience, because we got to pack many bags with essentials that people need. It was fun, but also sad that a lot of people don’t have essentials like food, water, warmth and toiletries.” (Isaac, FSCL)

“I always see people on the side of the road and I just feel so bad and by doing this it just makes me feel really good.” (Jack, FSCL)

“… it made me feel grateful to have a loving family, roof over my head, and food and water to eat and drink and also happy to give stuff to people less fortunate than us.” (Owen, FSCL)

“SMC packing made me feel great that I got to contribute to helping the less fortunate … I also can’t wait to see their face with joy and gladness when they receive the bag.” (Marko, FSCL)

Soup-Making

In addition to the primary campus’ efforts, the Year 9 students came together to prepare a nourishing and warming meal for those experiencing homelessness this winter.

The meals will be provided to Fred’s Van, a service of the St Vincent de Paul Society which helps to break through the barriers of isolation that many people living in poverty feel.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CvwTPtRAjlO/

We thank you for your selflessness, your willingness to give, and your genuine commitment to creating positive change. Together, we have made a significant impact, reminding us all that even the smallest acts of kindness can transform lives.