A ST Hilda’s student determined to make a difference this Christmas created more than 80 food packs for those in need.
Annabelle Elias organised the food drive at her Mosman Park school to assist St George’s Cathedral with their homeless support program.
“My two brothers were in the St George’s Cathedral choir for nine years,” Annabelle said.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOW“At times we would see homeless people come in and directly ask for food, and many would be turned away as they did not have enough; I knew I had to do something about it.”
The Year 11 student went to a photography display at the cathedral with principal Kim Kiepe, and said it opened her eyes further to the problem of homelessness.
“There were people there that said they had been taken away from their families and did not have a home,” Annabelle said.
“Whereas if you asked someone here, one of the worst things to happen to them may be not having a phone.
“It made me realise the problems we face aren’t really that bad.”
Annabelle organised students in the senior school to bring non-perishable food items during term, and then enlisted the help of the Junior School Community Service Committee to make up the food packs.
Dean of Perth, the Very Reverend Richard Pengelley, said Annabelle was to be commended for her vision and compassion.
“The food packs will come in very handy as we head towards Christmas, a very difficult time for those in need,” he said.
Annabelle said she hoped to run a food drive every term next year.
MORE: Former Premier Colin Barnett retires from politics
MORE: Arsonists set fire to Hamilton Senior High School before last day
