The St Bernard’s College Social Justice Program focuses on the things that will make a difference to others: generosity, reconciliation, protection of the weak, forgiveness, expressions of gratitude, inclusion, sharing of resources and service.

The Social Justice Network was established in 2012 - it is made up of parents who believe in encouraging and facilitating our own and our sons’ interest and involvement in social justice. By being involved in the Network, we seek to actively participate and role model this commitment.Some of our volunteer opportunities include:

· Supporting the organisation of annual speaker events;

· Providing volunteers every Tuesday night for the St Vinnies Soup Van; and

· Offering support when needed for the Brigidine Asylum Seekers Project.

Usually we meet the 3rd Wednesday of each month in the Boardroom and welcome any new parents who might want to join.

The motto of St Bernard’s is ‘Discere et Agere’ – to learn and to do.

Through the SBCSJN we seek to meet the challenge of what will we can DO to make a difference.

Join us!

SOUP VAN

The St Bernard’s College Social Justice Network began in 2012 and have volunteers working on the Footscray St Vinnie’s Soup Van. You don't have to attend meetings to be on the roster.

The Footscray Soup Van began operating on 17 September 1989 and provides assistance to people who might be facing tough times. We offer a friendly face and a warm meal in the Western regions in and around the Footscray area seven nights a week.

Last year, our 180 volunteers assisted 141 people per night.

This service could not exist without the generous support of our many volunteers, sponsors, donors and suppliers.www.vinnies.org

Partnership with the Brigidine Asylum Seeker Project (BASP).

We know that there are many SBC families looking for practical social justice volunteering activities. Our St Vinnies Footscray Soup Van roster has been full for the past several years so we welcome this community outreach opportunity.

BASP is an initiative sponsored by the Brigidine Sisters. “We engage with the issues of our time, stand in solidarity with those who are oppressed, and seek to build a more inclusive community. Our motto is strength and kindness.” BASP focus on practical assistance for people seeking asylum in Victoria. (www.basp.org.au)

As a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice Tradition, St Bernard’s is committed to justice and peace for all, grounded in a spirituality of action and reflection that calls us to stand in solidarity with those who are marginalised. As parents, we recognise that the gospel duty and relevance of helping others is one of the most important reasons for sending our boys to St Bernard’s. There is no better way of role modelling social justice support than by volunteering yourself.

​​The Social Justice Network will support BASP by promoting the organisation to the SBC Community and providing information to those who are interested in volunteering.

• Teaching English to asylum seekers in family’s homes – in pairs
• Social support and friendship –homes and community
• Transport to activities/appointments (occasional or regular)
• Preparing for visa application
• Visiting asylum seekers while in detention centre
• Food collection/deliveries
• Housing – make available; help with inspections and application
• Moving furniture - Do you have a ute or trailer?

Email: Nick Smith - nsmith@sbc.vic.edu.au

Or visit us on facebook https://www.facebook.com/SBSJN/