YEAR 11 VCAL

In terms 3 and 4 this year, the Year 11 VCAL class picked homelessness as an issue on which we wanted to research and take action. A highlight of the unit was the visit from Tanya, a representative from the local women’s shelter, McAuley House. Tanya explained how wrong the stereotypes about homelessness really are - that in fact it mostly affects women and children - and discussed what her organisation does to help women who would otherwise be homeless. 

So we decided we wanted to try and help out as much as we could, to raise money for the McAuley house who helps homeless women and those who come from domestic abuse.   

On the 13th of September, we set up face painting and henna stalls in the lower forum, as well as organising a whole-school casual dress day. Thanks to all those who contributed, we raised $600 dollars. Everybody contributed however they could, whether this was with beautiful henna designs or crowd control. Special thanks also to students from outside of the VCAL class who contributed their time anyway - thanks Bridgette and Yemi. 

On 25 October, VCAL visited McAuley House women’s shelter in Footscray. Tanya greeted us and told us a little bit about the history of the place, their facilities and the support they provide to women. She also introduced us to their case workers, lovely and hard working people who explained the work they do every day helping to rebuild the lives of the women living there. We handed over the money that we had raised and they were very grateful and appreciative. This money that we raised as a school will now go to help homeless women and children in need.

By Felicity (Year 11 VCAL)