Gilroy students learn to serve

Gilroy Catholic College, Castle Hill students served people in need with compassion when they held their second annual food and toiletries drive for Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS).

Year 11 and 12 students worked together to respond to the practical needs of local asylum seekers, with donations to be distributed by the JRS food bank which has recently relocated to Westmead.

JRS seeks social justice for refugees worldwide and runs programs in 51 countries that offer education, emergency assistance, healthcare and social services to refugees, people seeking asylum, and other displaced people. Local programs include casework support, English classes and legal clinics.

JRS Employment Coordinator Leonie Dyer began working for the organisation in response to the needs of people in the community who are seeking asylum. She relishes the opportunity to serve people on the margins.

“You can fundraise at school or with your family and friends… small acts make a really big difference. Fundraising, writing letters and giving food makes a big difference,” Leonie says.

With service, justice and compassion core values at Gilroy Catholic College, students are regularly encouraged to reach out to people in need. These acts of service make a big difference in their formation as future community leaders too!