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Thanks to the initiative and vision of some of our own parishioners, St Mary's are pleased to invite practical support for two local organizations working to help those in need: Anawim House (operated by Anawim Companions Society), and Our Place. If you're visiting St Mary's over the next weeks, you'll notice two new hampers by the entryway notice board, collecting clothing for both locations—which a particular need as Winter sets in.

Anawim House

Operating in Victoria since 1987, Anawim Companions Society is a safe, substance-free community where health, recovery, and belonging come first. They welcome individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, and addiction with deep compassion, dignity, and hope.

Use the hamper for Anawim House to contribute the following, particularly needed right now:

  • Warm Layers: Sweaters, hoodies, and jackets
  • Weather Protection: Rain gear, coats, and hats
  • Daily Essentials: Clean pants, shirts, and sturdy footwear
  • NEW unused underwear for men and women

The “Sox Box” for Our Place

Last time our own Mary H. took some extra food from our Churchmouse Book Sale BBQ down to Our Place, she also took some socks that brother couldn’t use. The Our Place folks were happy to get the food but even more elated with the socks! Warm, clean socks are always in high demand, and especially at this time of year when it’s so wet. Apart from the discomfort, wet feet can cause all manner of health problems. “When I saw the crowd outside I felt we needed to do something,” Mary says.

So, please use the “Sox Box” (Our Place) hamper to contribute mostly men’s work socks, i.e. grey wool/nylon mix. Various places have suitable thermal socks for a good price, so shop around. Let’s fill the box for Christmas and the cold months of winter.

Thank you for any support you can provide, and please spread the word!