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KIrsten Sayers, left, with Fr Hien Vu and her mother Coral Classon following a Project Compassion talk at the Melbourne parish of Mernda earlier this Lent (Caritas Australia)

Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion annual Lenten appeal is nearing completion, following six weeks that saw more than 1200 parishes and 1700 schools, as well as countless organisations, community groups and individuals participating. 

This year, the Catholic community was encouraged to donate, take on “The Long Walk for Water” or “Give it up for Lent” challenges or to host a Lent event as part of efforts to “Unite Against Poverty”, the theme for this year’s campaign. 

Caritas Australia’s chief executive officer Kirsten Sayers said: “Project Compassion comes to life in our communities, our parishes, and schools – many of which I had the great pleasure of visiting over the course of Lent. It is the beating heart of Caritas Australia and is a beacon of hope for vulnerable communities across the world. 

“As Project Compassion comes to a close, we want to recognise the effort that goes into a full six weeks of fundraising in schools and parishes and extend a heartfelt thank you to those rolling their sleeves up to Unite Against Poverty,” Ms Sayers said. 

“The compassion and generosity of the entire Catholic community here in Australia has a profound impact on the communities we serve. It crosses borders and unites us with our brothers and sisters across the globe.”

Generations of Australians have participated in Project Compassion since it began in 1965, making it one of the nation’s longest-running charity campaigns. Over the years it has served to teach people all over Australia about the people, families, and communities impacted by their generosity.

Details: Project Compassion.

FULL STORY

Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion gives thanks to the community for Uniting Against Poverty (Caritas Australia)