On the final day of July, 30 St Catherine’s School students from Years 7 to 12 participated in the Red Shield Appeal Letter Box Drop.

The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal has provided assistance to homeless people for 140 years, ensuring adequate resources such as food, shelter and warmth are provided to people in need. Unfortunately, Covid-19 has led to an influx of homelessness. However, with the help of the girls, we were able to give back to the community and help those in need.

Unlike in past years, we were unable to do a door knock due to social distancing restrictions, so instead we delivered letters that had a barcode that allowed people to scan to donate.

We were lucky enough to have Mr Normal Gale from the Salvation Army speak to us during a Senior School Assembly and share the importance of this organisation. Working at the Camberwell Branch for over 12 years, Mr Gale spoke about his role and the services the Salvation Army provides to those in need. He encouraged us to participate in this event and from his influence, we had many girls from each Year level eager to join in.

With the help of Ms Yokouchi, who put a great deal of effort into facilitating this event, we were able to band together to spread awareness and encourage others to donate to this worthy cause.

This event allowed us to make new friendships with girls from different Year levels and we all felt a sense of achievement and pride from giving back to our community.