Students raise money for the homelesss during annual “Sleep-out for the Homeless night”
In September forty students from Sacred Heart School Sandgate, in Years 5, 6 and 7 participated a “Sleep-out for the Homeless night” at the the school.
Forty students from Sacred Heart School Sandgate, in Years 5, 6 and 7 participated a “Sleep-out for the Homeless night” at the the school.
The annual fundraiser, which started only 2 years ago, is not simply a ‘sleepover’ for the students. They hear first-hand accounts from youth in the local area who ‘sleep rough’ every night, receive a very simple dinner of soup and bread, and participate in a number of activities that assist them to create meaning from their experience.
“We hope this activity brings a sense of reality for the students to the plight of the homeless in the Sandgate and wider Brisbane community, whilst building an appreciation of their cosy beds and their ‘privileged’ lifestyles.” explained Principal, Chris Bathersby.
The sleepout began in response to a review of the school’s ‘outreach’ program. Conscious of the number of people who ‘sleep rough’ in their own local community, the students decided that one of our four fcal points (1 per term) for our Outreach program could be to make a contribution to the support of these homeless people. The Year 7 Ministry group arrange the night of activities as well as asking Staff members to supervise and arrange the delivery of the night meal.
This year the sleepout raised $400, which they have donated to the “Coats for the Homeless” project. This donation will provide twelve homeless people with our specially designed winter coats.
If you would like to support the Coats for the Homeless project, you can donate using our secure online gateway:
