Thank you to all those who contributed to the overwhelming success of the 2021 Spring Sleep Out. On behalf of the organising committee I would like to extend our gratitude for your support of this year’s covid style sleep out. Around 300 students signed up to sleep out over the September holidays. In addition, some family members and pets joined in too!

Remote learning has impacted greatly on our ability to come together and serve others, however, the number of people needing assistance across Geelong is unprecedented. The recognition of the suffering of others led a group of Year 11 students to work with Mrs Humphrey and Ms Negro to make this service opportunity a reality.

This project was based on principles of Catholic Social Teaching and our Mercy Values, employing an advocacy approach to inspire students to become agents of positive change in the world around us. This Mercy Justice Initiative raised awareness for the local homelessness crisis and the growing number of people experiencing social isolation during covid restrictions.

Lazarus Community Centre, Geelong will receive a cash donation of $2100, plus vouchers and personal hygiene items generously donated by participants and their supporters.

Through the establishment of a real world partnership with Lazarus we are able to understand the complexities of the needs of our marginalised neighbours and identify our individual capacity to assist others. Their Mission is “to provide a safe and welcoming place for people to meet and be supported as valued members of our community.” Click here https://lazarushouse.com.au/ to learn more about Lazarus and follow them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lazaruscommunitycentre.

By partnering with Lazarus we are able to improve the life and wellbeing of those accessing support not only through the supply of material goods but the knowledge that they are not alone, they are not invisible, they are not forgotten. Sincere gratitude to all involved on behalf of the organisers, and Lazarus Community Centre volunteers and clients.

A big thank you and congratulations to Indigo Irving 11CLBWI, Lainey Karlich 11LODG, Madeline Grace 11SIJPO and Grace Williamson 11SIDJ for their passion, time and organisation in coordinating this Mercy Justice Initiative for the whole school community.

“Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.” Proverbs 14:31

Indigo Irving 11CLBWI