Saint Augustine’s Catholic High School Help the homeless Appeal 2018 ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ – Jesus

What is homelessness Homelessness means not having a home this may mean living on the street, however you can also be homeless if you are: Staying with friends or family. Staying in a hostel, night shelter or B&B. Squatting. At risk of violence or abuse in your home. Living in poor conditions that affect your health. Living apart from your family because you don't have a place to live together. Homelessness affects a wide variety of people. Some people may be more vulnerable to homelessness. People may be more affected if: Leaving home for the first time or leaving care. Struggling to live on benefits or a low income. ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ – Jesus

What can we do to help? In your tutor groups, you are going to have a box to gather together items that we can hand out to people who have no stable place to live. It is our hope that it gives them one less thing to worry about and makes them feel supported and cared for, even by strangers. You will have until Monday 2nd July 2018 to collect items for your hamper. The boxes will then be distributed in the future weeks and given to people in desperate need of items that we take for granted Clothes can be used but must be in a good condition and washed. ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ – Jesus

What can we do to help? Items needed are: Long lasting foods, pull cans, packets of foods warm Clothes ( various age ranges) ( hat and scarfs) Toiletries (must be new) e.g. shampoo, bath wash, soap, wash cloths, cotton wool, wipes, tooth brushes, tooth paste. Entertainment Pet food and toys ( no tins) Blankets/ sleeping bags This will be stated on the front of the boxes that will be provided to each form. ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ – Jesus

Thank you for helping those who need it the most  What now? A collection box will be delivered to form rooms. If you are in the supermarket, see if they have any discounted toiletries or ‘basics’ ranges please purchase. Go home tonight and politely ask if there are any items that are suitable, every item will make a difference to someone homeless in the community. Thank you for helping those who need it the most  ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ – Jesus

Prayer Dear lord, We pray for those sleeping under bridges, on park benches, in doorways or bus stations. For those who can only find shelter for the night but must wander in the daytime. For families broken because they could not afford to pay the rent. For those who have no relatives or friends who can take them in. For those who have no place to keep possessions that remind them who they are. For those who are afraid and hopeless. For those who have been betrayed by our social safety net. For all these people, we pray that you will provide shelter, security and hope. Amen ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ – Jesus