Over recent months, several community events have provided opportunities to raise awareness of the Order of Malta, welcome new volunteers and support people experiencing hardship and homelessness.

Volunteer Information Stand at Parramatta Cathedral

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who visited the Order of Malta volunteer information stand at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta, in August, and to the Cathedral for giving our Members the opportunity to speak with parishioners at all Masses throughout the weekend.

A special mention also to the Members and volunteers who generously gave their weekend to staff the stand, speak with visitors and share their passion for the Order’s mission.

We were delighted to receive more than 50 enquiries from people interested in volunteering with the Community Care Van in Parramatta, supporting people experiencing homelessness.

A Night of Heart, Community and Giving Back

Galilee Catholic Primary School in Bondi used its annual Winter Sleepout to raise funds and awareness in support of the Order of Malta’s projects.

Students and families built cardboard shelters, gaining an insight into what it might be like to spend a night without secure and comfortable housing.

Daniel Kwok, Vice-President of Order of Malta Australia, attended as a guest speaker and spoke about the Order’s work supporting people experiencing hardship and homelessness.

Families also collected toiletries and other essentials, assembling 25 hygiene packs for guests attending the Order’s Community Care Kitchen in Bondi.

The school has supported the Community Care Kitchen for several years, with families and staff previously providing homemade treats and fruit salads for guests at the weekly food service.

Thank you to the students, families and staff for their generosity and ongoing support of our works.

Mudgeeraba Cubs Support the Hospitaller Works

Regional Hospitaller Danny Higgins recently visited the Mudgeeraba Cub Scout Troop to speak about homelessness, disadvantage and the challenges people can face throughout their lives.

Danny was impressed by the children’s understanding, empathy and thoughtful questions. Their compassion was put into action, with troop leaders encouraging the Cubs to bring dry goods for people in need who will visit Philermos House.

The troop collected more than seven full supermarket bags of essential items, including tinned tuna, instant noodles, baked beans, muesli bars and other pantry staples.

Thank you to the Mudgeeraba Cubs for their support.

Could Your Community Help?

Schools, parishes and community groups can play an important role in supporting the works of the Order of Malta — whether by helping recruit volunteers, raising funds or collecting essential goods for people in need.

If your school, parish or community group would like to get involved, we would love to hear from you.

Please contact info@orderofmalta.org.au to find out how you can help.