Caritas Australia has announced the launch of Project Compassion 2023, its annual Lenten fundraising and awareness-raising appeal.

For each of the six weeks of Lent, thousands of Australians come together in solidarity to help end poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity.  

Caritas Australia helps over 1 million people in Australia and overseas every year - walking hand-in-hand with those in crisis. 

This year, Project Compassion is built around the theme of ‘For All Future Generations. This theme asks us to reflect on the great yes that Mary said when the angel told her that she was to become the mother of Jesus. She freely accepted a unique place in the history of the human family. The great prayer she shared with her cousin Elizabeth says ‘all generations will call me blessed.’ Her yes is ‘for all future generations.’ 

This year’s Project Compassion includes the story of 16-year-old Laxmi from Nepal, who after losing her father at a very young age became a leader in her school and is now a mentor to other girls in her village. There is also the story of Tereesa, a Gamilaroi woman from Darug land in Western Sydney who reconnected with her First Australian culture and can now create a better future for her four young children.   

Supporters will hear from Priscilla from Zimbabwe, who learnt conservation farming skills to grow drought-resistant crops to support her family during the current food crisis, and Thu, who lost his leg after treading on a landmine from the Vietnam War and can now earn a sustainable income to support his family.  

During Lent, we are invited to take up the call to fast, pray and give alms. The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the many crises that have struck the world over the past 12 months mean that many communities are in great need of your support.  

Supporting Project Compassion is a way for us to proclaim the faith that is in our hearts and help our sisters and brothers in need. Your gift will help uplift the most marginalised and vulnerable members of society.

To donate to Project Compassion, visit Caritas Australia’s website: www.caritas.org.au/project-compassion/ or call 1800 024 413.

CONTACT: Jessica Stone on 0490 684 867 / jessica.stone@caritas.org.au