Street Retreat

Ten students from Year 12 have just returned from the ‘Sydney Street Retreat’ where students and staff worked alongside the homeless.

Street Retreat was a truly amazing and unforgettable experience that was completely different to anything I have ever done in my life. I am so thankful for this opportunity as it opened my eyes and changed my views on homelessness and the stigmas surrounding it, especially regarding drug and alcohol abuse. Before this experience I knew how lucky I was but actually talking to and seeing how less fortunate people in Sydney live definitely challenged my past thoughts and had a major effect on me and I came to the realisation of how blessed I really am. The Street Retreat was so rewarding and taught me countless messages surrounding ‘disability is not inability’ and ‘Homelessness is not a choice. Sarah Craft

Street Retreat was an eye opening experience where I learned how truly lucky and blessed we all are. It was one of the hardest things that I have ever done but at the same time it was incredibly rewarding, which provided me with a lifelong lasting impact. We got to experience a daily life of a homeless person and have had the privilege of meeting some extraordinary people. We witnessed their amazing sense of community and learnt that the typical stereotype and stigma surrounding homelessness as well as alcohol and drug abuse was completely untrue. From this experience I am definitely more aware of people living out on the streets and I am definitely inspired to do more around our community to help others. Jassmin Amos  

Street Retreat was the best experience that I will probably ever have. It taught me to be grateful for what I have. It allowed us to see how the homeless people of Sydney live. We also had lunch with some of the homeless people which was a truly eye opening experience because we got to have a chat to them and hear about their lives and what their lives were like before they became homeless. We also went to various food vans to observe and chat to the homeless people. This experience was truly a remarkable one and I will probably remember it for years to come. Nathan Pippin

Street Retreat for me was a confronting but very worthwhile experience in every aspect.  A stand out activity for me during the Retreat was to travel to Martin Place and pretend we were homeless, sitting on the sides of the busy street with no socks or shoes on. I felt scared but also sad as no one spoke to me, asking if I was alright. When adults made eye contact they immediately looked away, while the children stared as they passed. I have gained knowledge and a new perspective from this trip, while also gaining confidence and developing relationships with the rest of the group. The retreat has made me reflect on my own life and be more grateful for everything in it. It was an experience that I am very grateful for and would recommend to anyone considering applying!  Olivia Shaw

These initiatives are excellent examples of our commitment to overcoming social inequality and serving the disadvantaged in society. When we fight for injustice and inequality through direct action, we are "walking the talk" of the Gospels. 

Mr Matt Hope and Miss Kate Nolan