Catholic Mission’s annual Socktober initiative encourages students to take action on global issues like poverty and social justice through soccer.
The 2024 Socktober season officially launched earlier this month with five schools in the Brisbane Archdiocese leading the way. Trinity College in Beenleigh hosted the launch, welcoming students from St Joseph’s Tobruk Memorial School, Mother Teresa Catholic Primary School, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, and San Damiano College.
“Students had such a great time during this launch; the energy among the students was so invigorating. I can tell this year will be a great Socktober season,” says Sue Williams, Catholic Mission Queensland youth and schools engagement officer.
This year, students are learning about the work of mission in Mongolia and the reality of the people living there; as they face challenges such as extremely harsh winters, increased rates of poverty and lack of social services to assist those in need.
Through Socktober, they will learn about the Don Bosco Caring Centre, a Church-run program dedicated to being a welcoming home for children left to fend for themselves on the streets of Mongolia.
Socktober participants are encouraged to raise awareness and make a difference by fundraising for programs like the Caring Centre, so that children in need can access a safe home, nutritious meals and education, to help them build a brighter and more certain future.
“More than just being a fundraising program, there is a real connection with the students, and it’s just a fun and beautiful way to raise their missionary vocations, which live in all of us,” Ms Williams said.
“Every time I go to a school to engage with students, I can tell how excited they are to be part of Socktober and to be contributing to the great work of mission.”
Details: www.socktober.org.au.
FULL STORY
Australian Schools Kicking the First Goal for Socktober in 2024 in Brisbane (Catholic Mission)
