Most of us are able to rug up during Winter, seeking shelter from the harsh Canberra cold in our homes with heating, blankets, coats and other items to keep us warm. However, this is not the case for all Canberrans, the rate of homelessness and living below the poverty line continues to grow. With this in mind, we will again be supporting St Vincent de Paul through their Winter Appeal. The Vinnies Winter Appeal provides emergency relief to people at risk and experiencing homelessness. Donations of warm clothing and blankets as well as financial contributions are a vital source of support for St Vincent de Paul and all of the wonderful work they do. 

WINTER DONATIONS:
For the next two weeks (Week 8 and 9), we invite our St Anthony’s Preschool community to get behind the Vinnies Winter Appeal by bringing in new or used (in reasonably good condition) warm Winter items.  there is a basket in our foyer for these donations. St Vincent de Paul have indicated that they need the following items:

• Blankets
• Jackets
• Jumpers
• Warm gloves and socks
• Sleeping bags
• Beanies

PRAYERS:
We ask that you also keep Canberra’s homeless and those living below the poverty line in your prayers, especially during Winter, as this time of year is particularly challenging.

We also keep in our thoughts and prayers the Kensey family. Debbie Kensey has worked with St Anthony’s through our Vinnies Winter and Christmas Appeals for many years and recently passed away suddenly. Many of our primary school students and families would know Debbie as she would come to an assembly or mass to thank the St Anthony’s community for their donations. It was also often her car that we loaded up with all of our donated items. Debbie will be sorely missed.

Your donations and support will help to ensure that Canberra families at risk of homelessness get the financial and emotional support they need to keep themselves and their children safe.