St George’s Anglican Grammar School community donated thirty-five brand new backpacks that were filled-to-the-brim to Anglicare WA’s Christmas Backpack Appeal. Each backpack was full of quality stationery and school essentials estimated to save families in need across WA between $80 and $100 per child.
The backpacks went to two locations, the Arbor Grove Child and Parent Centre which supports vulnerable children, and Community Services in Joondalup who assist families experiencing financial hardship and family and domestic violence.
Ms Grainne Heanney, Manager at Arbor Grove Child and Parent Centre, said the donations had an immediate and meaningful impact on local families.
‘It brought a smile to many faces in the Ellenbrook area and a sense of relief to many local families who are currently experiencing hard times due to cost of living increases and who often dread the return to school preparation coming so quickly after the festive season expenses. These backpacks make a big difference to our local families, they show them that others care and we feel very lucky to receive these,’ she said.
A service manager working closely with recipient families said the school’s donations went far beyond providing just the obvious practical support.
‘What we see when parents are gifted these donations is immense relief and the feeling of being seen, valued, cared for and respected. These acts of kindness bring immense joy, comfort and gratitude to the families in receipt of a beautifully gifted backpack. These annual Anglicare backpacks are always noticed, appreciated and never wasted.’
As the first school pick-up of the season, Anglicare WA Community Engagement Manager, Ms Kelly Keall, praised not just the number donated but the thoughtfulness behind them.
‘I was blown away by how many there were – I could hardly fit them in my car,’ she said. ‘But it wasn’t just the quantity. The care that went into choosing quality stationery and lovely backpacks was obvious – including a purple Fremantle Dockers backpack that will make one child very happy when they start school.’ Rumour has it that this striking backpack was donated by St George’s Principal, Mrs Tina Campbell.
Last year, the School focused on a wide range of new service learning initiatives led by Head of Service Learning and Camp Programs, Miss Sadie Yoxall. In 2026, service learning and charity initiatives will continue to be front of mind. This year, for the very first time, a St George’s staff and student team are prepping themselves to be involved in the Central Park Plunge, raising significant funds for Anglicare. We wish them all the best as their fundraising drive begins with ‘Silly socks for the summit’ in Term One.
