Hundreds of people gathered at Sacred Heart Cathedral today with open hearts and minds for the launch of Caritas’ Project Compassion.

Spanning across the six weeks of Lent each year, Project Compassion brings thousands of Australian schools, parishes and supporters together to raise funds for people living in some of the most vulnerable communities around the world.

Caritas Australia’s Impact Director Leigh Matthews said it was great to see so many people there to support the cause.

“It was beautiful to have everybody here for the launch of Project Compassion,” she said.

“There was a great energy in the room, and I think it really resonated with the people here.

“Project Compassion genuinely has a real impact on individuals – sometimes it’s easy to forget that there are people on the other end of our donations. It’s an opportunity to consider that there is a person with a real life who is able to change their future with your support.”

Director of Pastoral Ministries Teresa Brierley says the event and this year’s theme “For All Future Generations” is incredibly important to our Diocese.

She believes that Caritas' stories show how much of an impact a campaign like this can have.

“Project Compassion is important for our Diocese because Caritas are our international overseas organisation. On behalf of the Catholic Church, they help countries in which they mission and provide support when needed,” Teresa said.

“It’s significant because we often think of our own country in need, but this way, through Project Compassion’s stories, you can see the good works they do. They can only achieve that because we support them financially.”

One of this year’s highlights is Laxmi’s story.

After losing her father at a young age, Laxmi was at risk of falling further into extreme poverty. But with the support of Caritas Nepal, Laxmi joined a child's club, became a leader in her school and is now a mentor to other girls in her village.

She lives with her mother and siblings in Jajarkot, one of the least developed districts in Nepal’s Karnali province.

Laxmi is just one of 5,000 children that Caritas Nepal has supported, and with our help, they can provide assistance to many more.

Leigh encourages anyone who can contribute, to donate funds to the campaign – she says every dollar will make a difference.

“This Lent, remember that the good you do today will impact the lives of all future generations to come,” she said.

To donate to Project Compassion, visit www.caritas.org.au/project-compassion/donate

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