SisterWorks and Girton Helping to Warm Winter

Before being interrupted by the current lockdown, “the Sisters” from SisterWorks were busy repurposing donated woollen Girton school jumpers for distribution by the Bendigo Winter Night Shelter. 

The Bendigo Winter Night Shelter (BWNS) is a volunteer organisation working with local churches, community groups, businesses and individuals to provide support for people who are experiencing crisis homelessness during winter in the Bendigo area.

Parent volunteer, Kate Mahony, said that this latest project was a timely reminder of the importance of looking out for those who are vulnerable, especially given the various impacts of the Coronavirus pandemic. 

“The woollen school jumpers that have been donated that are in good condition are ideal for a Bendigo winter, and the Sisters have done a beautiful job of general mending and removing the school logo. 

“We have donated forty jumpers to the Bendigo Winter Night Shelter, and we will continue work after the lockdown to provide more jumpers to those who need them. 

“Like all of our repurposing projects, it is immensely satisfying that the clothes that families donate to us are not going to landfill, that people in need are receiving repurposed items and that the Sisters are acquiring new skills,” Kate said. 

Uniform items donated to the Girton second-hand uniform shop and sold to Girton families help raise money to fund SisterWorks in repurposing the older style uniform items. The Sisters work onsite in the second-hand uniform shop in the Junior School. SisterWorks supports women who are refugees, asylum seekers or migrants to improve their confidence, mental well-being, sense of belonging and economic outlook.  

“Please continue to donate second-hand uniforms to support other Girton families and those in the broader community, in Bendigo and beyond. Students can place items in the bins provided near Morey Reception or via Junior School reception.

“We are always looking for volunteer helpers too, so please notify reception staff if you can assist,” Kate said. 

During Term, the second-hand uniform shop is open Thursday 3-4pm and Friday 8.15 – 8.45am.