Embracing the Spirit of Giving: Winter Appeal 2024

At Santa Maria College, the essence of our mission is to impart the values of compassion, generosity, and Christain service in our students. This winter, these values were vividly brought to life through our annual Winter Appeal, an initiative that has become a cherished tradition in our school community. Like in the past, the appeal was dedicated to supporting three incredible outreach agencies: The St Vincent de Paul Society, The Archbishop’s Shopfront, and St Patrick’s Care.

Generosity Across Generations

The response to our Winter Appeal was nothing short of inspiring. Students, staff, parents, and alumni united in a remarkable show of solidarity and generosity. Over the course of the appeal, we collected an impressive array of goods and monetary donations, each contribution a witness to the compassionate hearts that make up our school community.

The Heart of the Appeal: The Outreach Mass

Today marked the culmination of our Winter Appeal with the celebration of our Outreach Mass, an occasion that brought our community together in faith and service. The Mass was a powerful reminder of our mission to serve those in need and to live out the Gospel values in tangible ways.

During Mass, the red bags filled with donations were proudly displayed near the altar, symbolising the collective efforts and generosity of our community. These bags contained a variety of items, from warm clothing and blankets to non-perishable foods and essential household goods, all destined to bring comfort and hope to those in need during the cold winter months.

Honouring Our Partners in Service

We were honoured to have representatives from The St Vincent de Paul Society, The Archbishop’s Shopfront, and St Patrick’s Care join us for the Outreach Mass. Their presence was a profound reminder of the vital work these organisations do in our community. These dedicated individuals graciously accepted the donations on behalf of their clients, expressing gratitude for the support provided by our school.

The representatives shared moving stories of how these donations make a significant impact on the lives of those they serve, offering not just material aid but also a sense of hope and dignity. Their words were a powerful affirmation of the importance of our collective efforts and the difference we can make when we come together as a community.

As we reflect on this year’s appeal, we are filled with gratitude and extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who contributed.  We look forward to continuing this tradition of giving in the years to come

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From the President – August 2026

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