Supporting Our Community: St Augustine’s College Seniors at Women and Children First Shelter

At St Augustine’s College, our commitment to serving the community is more than just words, it’s action. Over the past few terms of 2024, some of our senior students stepped up as volunteers at the Women and Children First (W&CF) shelter in Dee Why. This vital non-profit organisation provides support to women and children escaping domestic violence, creating safe spaces where families can rebuild their lives, and have greater opportunities to thrive.

Making an Impact Through the Homework Club

Every Wednesday, a group of senior boys from St Augustine’s College takes part in the Homework Club, assisting children with their schoolwork whilst enjoying quality time together through support and friendship. While these students foster a nurturing environment for the children, the mothers attend workshops where they connect with other women who are also be facing challenges; they are able to share their experiences and offer support to each other, comfortable in the knowledge their children are nearby and being cared for.

Senior student Connor Nicolaou says “My experience at W&CF has given me a firsthand look at the impact of family violence and how it affects people differently, especially at various ages. It’s taught me to approach others with empathy and respect, as we often don’t know what challenges they might face behind closed doors.”

This is a great reflection of the students’ time at the shelter, where the Homework Club has become a source of joy for the kids as they engage with older students and experience positive social interactions. It has also inspired future senior boys to consider volunteering when opportunities arise.

Spreading Joy This Holiday Season

As the school holidays approach, St Augustine’s College has expanded its efforts to support the shelter by organising a fundraising initiative. Our students recognised the need to support families in need, especially during this season, and are happy with the response from our wonderful Saints community already. Contributions to the fundraiser have included gift cards or vouchers for family-friendly activities, such as cinema outings, bowling, or visits to the zoo; things that would otherwise be inaccessible to many of these families. These small gestures can make a world of difference, offering moments of joy and connection to families who are struggling at this time of year.

Cash donations are also welcome by visiting the Women and Children First website.

A Lasting Lesson in Compassion

Programs like the Homework Club reflect the values of St Augustine’s College, encouraging students to engage with the broader community, develop empathy, and make meaningful contributions. As Connor noted in his reflections, “Opportunities like this remind us of the importance of stepping outside our own lives to help others. It’s a lesson in humanity that stays with us long after the experience.”

Through initiatives like these, St Augustine’s College not only supports those in need but also fosters a generation of compassionate, community-minded young men ready to make a difference.