Dear Parents/ Carers,
Social Justice T3: Karinya House and HOME in Queanbeyan
The St Edmund’s Social Justice model focuses on local organizations this term and these are Karinya House and HOME in Queanbeyan. Homelessness causes much harm to individuals and there are many reasons why people find themselves in this unfortunate situation. It could be losing a job, relationship breakdown or mental health issues that drive a person into this desperate situation. Homelessness can then make it extremely difficult to actively participate in society.
The service activities we will participate in this term are to help raise awareness and understanding of the work these organizations do. For many of us it is hard to imagine some of the demanding situations that some of these people that are accessing Karinya House and HOME in Queanbeyan are facing. Though as a Catholic school we are guided by the Catholic Social Teaching of respecting every individual’s human dignity. We believe that every person is unique, unrepeatable, and sacred. Our scriptural theme for this year, “Everyone who asks, receives, Everyone who seeks, finds. Everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” Luke 11:9-10 This reminds us that we are being asked to follow the example set by Jesus to serve those that are most vulnerable. If we have something to give whether it is time, money, or gifts we do so without counting the cost.
St Edmund’s has a long relationship with both these community organizations. We have been asked to assist Karinya House raise money to put a shade sail over their children’s playground or donating goods such as personal care products, clothes, toys, books, nappies new or quality second hand.
Home, in Queanbeyan, requires money to buy healthy food for their residences, to improve their mental health and donations of personal care products. There are several ways that you can help. Please see the poster which outlines opportunities in which you can contribute.
We keep the people who access both organizations in our prayers as we aim to be Christ like in our service to others. Thank you.