Last term, as the state went into lockdown, many of our first thoughts were about how we would keep ourselves busy, and stay in touch with each other during lockdown. Thousands of homeless people in Adelaide had a more pressing concern. How they would survive in already difficult circumstances, now faced with the prospect of a state wide shutdown.
Homelessness has the potential to affect anyone. In the future, we may be just one paycheck away from homelessness. One accident. One illness. One rent payment. One natural disaster. One personal tragedy away from homelessness. We may even be one pandemic away from becoming homeless.
Every year, Anglicare supports 55,000 struggling individuals, and provides them with not only food, but clothes, toiletries and essential items. During a pandemic, these services become more and more necessary as people lose their jobs and income, therefore requiring more help. Unfortunately, younger people are now emerging as one of the largest demographics who require the support that organisations such as Anglicare provide.
For this reason, the Youth Hamper group (Year 10) are starting a collection drive together with the Mission Guild, for items that the homeless may need. Some of the items that we are looking to collect include:
- Hoodies
- Shirts
- Trackies
- Underwear
- Socks
- Beanies
- Toothbrushes/Toothpaste/Mouthwash
- Deodorant
- Sunscreen
- Hats
- Insect Repellent
- Hand Sanitiser
- Face Masks
- Towels
- Small Blankets
- Toiletry Packs
We do ask, however, that all of the items are brand new, and have not been opened or used before. As well as this, we ask that no sharps of any kind be donated (this includes scissors, razors and nail clippers).
The donations will be given to the Year 10 representatives in each House, and will then be organised into hampers, and donated to Anglicare. The slogan for this initiative is “Give to the future”. Because giving to youth means giving to our future.
Kerry Skujins
Senior School Teacher