Two Hallam Primary School students last year inspired schoolmates to pitch in to help families in crisis.
Chanelle and Fathima, who both started high school this year, led the effort in filling more than 25 boxes as part of the Food for Families appeal by Wesley Mission Australia.
They spoke at assemblies to drive awareness and donations.
Chanelle was mindful that some people didn’t have the luxury of eating a snack after school.
“People who are homeless… may have one meal a day that isn’t even a nice meal.”
Her friend Fathima said small acts of kindness made a difference.
“There are lots of children that are our age and don’t get all the stuff we get.
“It’s really important that they at least get the basics – food is one – because some people can’t afford it.”
In Casey, 104 donation boxes and bags were filled with items like pasta, toilet rolls, sandwich spreads, nappies, school snacks and gifts.
About 47 tonnes – in more than 3000 donation boxes and bags – was collected for the appeal from across greater Melbourne.
Wesley crisis and homelessness manager Janene Evans said the community’s continued generosity was important with homelessness on the rise.
“With Australia facing an affordable housing crisis, we can safely predict that the 47 tonnes of goods will go a long way to helping struggling families throughout 2017.”
The appeal was supported by 235 volunteers, 234 workplaces, 99 schools and kindergartens and 152 individuals.
