4 October 2021

The Mini Vinnies social justice group at St Brigid’s School, Gisborne, has been making a difference for the local community and inspiring even younger students to do the same.

Following the Feast of the Sacred Heart Mass, the school continued with its yearly collection of non-perishable goods to support vulnerable families in the local community. Despite the current restrictions, the school community managed to donate almost 500 items of food. In addition to food donations, a number of financial donations were made which allowed the Mini Vinnies to purchase more goods. The students were considerate of the needs of their community to get the best value for money from their donations.

Inspired by the actions of the Mini Vinnies, a ‘junior’ Mini Vinnies group was established and managed to raise an additional $100 as part of the action. The juniors then purchased food from a local supermarket to donate to the local food bank.

It was a wonderful moment for the community, as the Mini Vinnies and their junior counterparts delivered a shopping trolley full of supplies to donate. Helping to unpack and sort their donations reinforced the important work they’re all doing.