“God’s joy is not loud, but it truly changes history and brings us closer to one another”
- Pope Leo XIV
Dear Parent/Carer,
As we begin the season of Advent, we are inviting our community to take part once again in our Advent Giving Calendar. Bishop Challoner was founded almost a century ago by the Sisters of Mercy, whose mission in the East End was to help those in need and strengthen the bonds of community. We are proud to continue that work today.
This year we are supporting Neighbours in Poplar, a local charity that helps vulnerable and isolated people in our area. Their team provides company, guidance, warm meals and home visits for those who might otherwise feel alone. Their work becomes even more important at Christmas, when many people, particularly elders, can feel the weight of isolation more sharply. You can find out more about their work at https://www.neighboursinpoplar.com/what-we-do
Students are invited, if they wish, to bring in any of the following donations over the coming weeks:
Colouring books
Toys and games in good condition
Dry pasta (500g - 1KG Bags)
Rice (500g - 1KG Bags)
Tinned vegetables and pulses
Nappies in sizes 4, 5 and 6
Long life milk
Tinned tuna
Cereal
Period products, shower gel, toothbrushes and toothpaste
Teabags and instant coffee
Washing powder
Shower gel
Toothpaste
All donations are voluntary. Families should only give what they are able to. Every item, however small, makes a real difference and reminds someone nearby that they are valued. Students across the school will help collect and prepare everything, and the full delivery will be made to Neighbours in Poplar on 17 December. The donations will be used for the charity's food bank and for cooking meals to be delivered on Christmas Day.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to get in touch with me at media@bishop.towerhamlets.sch.uk. Thank you, as always, for the generosity and kindness you bring to our school community.
Yours faithfully,
James Johnston
Lay Chaplain
Bishop Challoner Catholic School
