Identity and Mission

Over the past two weeks a number of our students have volunteered to spend a night sleeping out at school outside the Dance Studio. 

You’re right, it does not sound overly appealing in the middle of the Hobart winter, and yes, it has been particularly cold at night time, but the girls only did it for one night before they could return to the comfort of their warm homes and beds. 

The idea of the Winter Sleepout was to gain empathy for those who have to do it every night, and who rely on the generosity and compassion of others to get a warm feed and some comfort. With over 1500 Tasmanians experiencing homelessness each night (a figure that is growing each year), the need to raise awareness, become educated on the issues, and respond to the plight of those who live it, has never been greater. Your donations to the Vinnies Winter Appeal helped in that regard, and any chance you have to donate unwanted, usable goods would be gratefully accepted. 

During the STRIVE program, our Year 8 students have made soup and biscuits for Loui’s Van, the outreach service of Vinnies, who help feed and clothe the homeless in Hobart.  Our staff here at Mount Carmel also volunteer once a month with Loui’s Van and go out in the community to support those in need. This is just one example of our values of courage, compassion and justice, modelled by the Sisters of Charity and ultimately by Jesus Christ, are expressed today within our school community.