St Mary's Primary School Ipswich is committed to living out Gospel values through action, fostering empathy and responsibility among students. Our social justice program runs throughout the year, combining education, advocacy, and service to support those most in need. Through events and campaigns, we raise funds for vulnerable individuals and families, while creating opportunities for students to learn about issues such as homelessness, poverty, loneliness, and displacement. 

These initiatives are grounded in Catholic Social Teaching principles—human dignity, solidarity, and the common good—helping students understand the deeper purpose behind their actions. Programs like Mini Vinnies and Socktober engage students through interactive weekly activities and fundraising challenges, using the “Head, Heart, Hands” model to inspire awareness, compassion, and practical support for communities in need globally and locally.  

Our school also partners with different organisations​ each year such as Mini Vinnies, Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion, and the Vinnies Christmas Appeal, which help to provide the structured opportunities for students to advocate for justice and contribute to meaningful change in our school and wider community. 

Mini Vinnies empowers primary students to become leaders in social justice, organising initiatives that respond to local needs, while Project Compassion invites schools to unite against poverty during Lent through prayer, reflection, and fundraising for sustainable development projects worldwide. 

Seasonal appeals like Vinnies Christmas Appeal ensure families facing hardship receive food, gifts, and essential support during the festive season. Additionally, grassroots groups such as Helping Our Homies Inc highlight the importance of community-driven efforts to assist people experiencing homelessness, reinforcing the message that every act of kindness matters. 

Together, these programs cultivate a culture of empathy, service, and hope—preparing students to be compassionate leaders who make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.