Matthew Talbot Hostel donation
Sincere thanks to Lady Wendy McGirr for organizing “Comfort Packs” for the homeless in Sydney. 110 comfort packs were donated which include: 100 pairs of pajamas, 110 beanies of various colors, Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, razors, comb, wipes, band-aids, and other small items. This donation was made to the Mathew Talbot Hostel in memory of Lady Wendy’s late husband Allan Brazier. The retail value of these “Comfort Packs” was over $17,000 in which the Order contributed half the amount and Lady Wendy together with several sponsors donated the remainder. The Order plans to continue this project on a yearly basis with Lady Wendy as the coordinator.
The Sisters of Charity Women’s Shelter donation
Lady Wendy McGirr coordinated and distributed comfort packs which include lady’s sanitary requirements and shampoo and conditioner, clothing, and handbags filled with toiletries – a little extra to give them some “Dignity” – when they leave the refuge to move into their new accommodation, she also organized “Settle-in Packs” – the Starter Pack has dinner set, glasses, cutlery, kitchen utensils – also added kettle and toaster, towels, tea towels, pots and bakeware. They also receive a bucket with toilet paper, paper towels, detergent, washing powder, etc. (whatever is available from donations) – this helps to settle them in and hopefully start a new life.
Order of St John fundraiser for Giant Steps, school for autistic children
On the 10th April, during Autism Awareness Week 2018, The Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St John of Jerusalem, Grand Priory of Australia held a fundraising Morning Tea to raise community awareness and support the cause. Many children and young adults diagnosed with Autism and their families, face unimaginable obstacles every day of their lives. Giant Steps Sydney is an innovative and specialized school for autistic children, recognized as a leading education center that endeavors to meet the needs of these children and support their families. The Order raised over $33,000 on the day, which will contribute to buying a minibus for the school. This bus will be used primarily for the Community Access Programme, ensuring that the children are given opportunities to participate in the community and enjoy activities that are often taken for granted by many. The event was opened by Lady Maureen Pancia, who was the emcee for the day. Grand Prior Chevalier Pasquale Pedullá, Lt. Grand Master, Grand Prior of Australia addressed the gathering, followed by Lady Angela Panzarino, who organized the event, with the help of other Dames and Knights. Kerrie Nelson, Principal of Giant Steps and Tania Carollo, speech therapist and parent of an autistic child at the school gave very interesting and informative talks which shed light on the difficulties faced by the children and all involved in their care.
Order of St John donation to Giant Steps
On the morning of the 17th May 2018 Knights and Dames of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Grand Priory of Australia attended the Giant Steps School located in Sydney. On arrival, they were meet by the school principal Kerry Nelson. Kerry talked about the historical significance of the grounds and buildings in which the school is located. The Knights and Dames were then given the opportunity to tour and observe the workings of the school. It became immediately apparent to the Knights and Dames of the enormity of the problems which the school is confronted with every day in dealing with the individual requirement of each child with Autism.
The devotion, skills, and commitment of each teacher were easily seen by all. The resources which are required to run the school are incredibly high, there is a ratio of one teacher per student, this is required for safety reasons and at the same time, it gives each child the best care and opportunity to achieve the best outcome. At the end of the visit Dame, Angela Panzarino on behalf of the Knights and Dames of the Order of St John presented a Cheque for $33,500.00 which was recently raised at a Morning Tea function, the money will be directed to purchasing a Bus for the school. The Order of St John has established a close working relationship with Giant Steps over the past 3 years with the total amount donated over the years has been $58,500.00.The Knights and Dames were extremely humbled by the work which is done by everyone involved with Giant Steps and they are committed to helping in future years.
Children’s Hospital Melbourne donation
In March Chevalier Sam Tropeano organised a fundraising function in Melbourne, his hard-working team raised $79,806.00during their Charity Ball through raffles and auctions. The proceeds will assist the Melbourne Children’s Hospital. More detailed information will be forthcoming in the next edition and will include photos of the event.
OSJ Ladies Craft Group
The Grand Priory of Australia has created a new venture requiring knitters and crocheters from learners to advanced to create blankets, beanies, scarves, shawls, string bags, etc. The group meets fortnightly and is a great way to socialise, show each other what they have created and even learn a few craft tricks while having coffee and cake. These precious items will then be donated to Women in need and homeless shelters in Sydney.
Photo One. Organisers of the OSJ Craft Group, Dame Santina Macaluso, Dame Mariarosa Bonanno, Dame Tina Zanco, Dame Carmela Di Pietro
Photo Two. Items the craft group has already made for women’s shelters in Sydney