Writes Richard Waddington, Assitant Head (Pastoral & Wellbeing)
On Saturday, 7th March, for a couple of hours, Hand on Heart Charitable Trust took over our Dining Hall for a bag packing event in support of the homeless.
Led by the amazing Afzal, Asifa and Sara Pradhan (and their team of volunteers), we quickly learned what essential toiletries and clothes go into a pack for their homeless guests. We then split into four rotating groups. Our boys and parents took turns to pack bags, to colour message cards, to learn about homelessness and take part in a discussion group.
There was an amazing community feel with numbers peaking at around 150 adults and children. The 80 at the end helped load the 250 bags packed into the van with a human chain! Hand on Heart will hand out 2500 bags (including ours) at their next outreach event in Birmingham. Guests will also receive a haircut, enjoy the company of others, get valuable advice and have a meal.
Thank you to all who took part, including Mrs Lad, Mr McConnell, Mrs Scales and Mrs Williams. Thanks too to all who donated towards the cost of a pack (around £25). This is something that we look forward to repeating next year!
