2009

Media Release

24th February 2009

Launch of Project Compassion

The Manning community will have the opportunity to stand in solidarity with the world’s poorest
people tomorrow, Ash Wednesday (25 February 2009) with the local launch of one of the largest
fundraising events for aid and development in Australia.

Bishop Michael Malone will officially launch Project Compassion in the Diocese of Maitland-
Newcastle. The event will be hosted by students and staff of St Clare’s High School, Taree, to mark
the beginning of Lent and the six week appeal period leading up to Easter.

Project Compassion raised $9.2 million nationally last year, and the Maitland-Newcastle Diocese
contributed $140,000. It’s hoped that this year more than $10 million will be raised throughout
Australia. It is Caritas Australia’s major annual fundraiser. The organisation is part of an international
network that works in almost every country in the world helping people help themselves out of
poverty.

Diocesan Director for Caritas in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, Deacon John Taylor, said the
funds raised this year will assist Caritas Australia to work in partnership with developing communities
who are improving their own lives through special projects.

“There will be a focus on education, health, water and sustainable agriculture, priorities which are set
out in the United Nations Millennium Development Goals,” said Deacon Taylor.

‘An environment to grow in’ is the theme of this year’s Project Compassion and the students of St
Clare’s High School Taree will explore this theme through music, drama, dance and prayer.

Tomorrow will also see the launch of ‘Sleepout 09’ where 400 students will organise sponsors to
sleep out on the concrete in St Clare’s playground on 9 April, so they can experience first hand what
it’s like to be homeless.

Donations can be made to Project Compassion through your local Catholic school, parish or agency,
by phoning 1800 024 413, on-line at www.caritas.org.au or by posting your cheque to GPO Box
9830 in your capital city.

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