Primary students respond to issue of homelessness
Primary students respond to issue of homelessness
11 December 2018
Students from Brisbane's Central State School recently presented packs for those coming into The Salvation Army's Pindari men's and women's services to Rob Whiteley (kneeling).
Students from the Grade 6 class at Brisbane’s Central State School often saw people experiencing homelessness in their area and decided to research the statistics on the issue.
“We were deeply saddened and shocked to see the number of people this affected and that a lot were our age,” said student Felix Chan. “It was really sombre.”
The students, led by teacher Luke Davis, decided to get involved and do something about it through their Year 6 Legacy Project, and contacted Rob Whiteley, team leader of The Salvation Army Accommodation and Homelessness Services, Brisbane City.
The students personalised the packs with hand-written cards.
“We organised a team and spoke to the students about homelessness and what they thought they could do to help,” Rob said.
“Together, we came up with the idea of a pack for people coming into Pindari men’s and women’s services – people who often arrive with nothing.
“The students put together the packs, which included a hat, water bottle, toiletries, broad-brimmed hat and a handwritten note.”
The students recently gave the packs to Homelessness Services for distribution.
“Luke and the students want to continue the partnership,” Rob said. “Next year we are establishing a community garden to grow vegetables to use in our kitchen as well as sell at the markets, and we hope that the students can be involved with that as well. Our goal is to strengthen our community bonds and establish and grow partnerships.”
The project had a deep impact on the students.
“I really enjoyed handing the packs over and seeing that it was really going to help people,” said Tarona Abbany. “During this project I have learned that we need to be aware and acknowledge those that experience homeless – it can really have a positive impact on their day.”
Felix said that he believed involvement in the project has made him a “better person”.
“It makes me feel happy and helpful,” he said. “In the future I would like to continue to donate time or money to homeless charities. I would also like to raise awareness around the community and further.
“I have learned that doing simple deeds like acknowledging someone and giving a little time or money can really have a huge impact of someone. This project has allowed me to get a different perspective and deeper understanding on homelessness.”
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