Unite Against Poverty. That is the theme for Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion 2026 appeal that will be officially launched on Sunday 15 February at a Mass held at St Mary’s Cathedral, celebrated by Bishop Don Sproxton, Auxiliary Bishop of Perth.
This year’s appeal focusses on four stories from around the world – Tanzania, Bangladesh, Fiji, and a special emergency appeal in Gaza.
In Tanzania, Sisilia previously walked long distances every day to collect water. Thanks to Project Compassion, her school and village now have safe clean water close by, and she can spend more time studying so she can fulfil her dreams of one day becoming a pilot.
In Bangladesh, Monoranjon with support from Project Compassion, has learned climate-resilient farming techniques and new ways to diversify his income, helping his family survive and build a safer, more sustainable future.
Manaini and her children live in rural Fiji. With support from Caritas Australia’s partner, FRIEND, she learned food processing and gardening skills, improving nutrition and creating new income opportunities to support her children’s education.
Ahmad is a Caritas Jerusalem staff member in Gaza who has endured repeated displacement, hardship and personal loss as a result of the conflict.
“These stories remind us that change is possible when we stand together… together, let us make this Lent a season of hope and unite against poverty,” said Bishop Tim Harris, Chair of the Bishops Commission for Social Justice, Mission and Service.
“Project Compassion provides students, parishes, families, communities, workplaces and individuals with an opportunity to come together to raise money, promote justice, and support the most vulnerable and marginalised communities,” added Shelby D’Souza, Caritas’ Diocesan Director for Perth.
“Your contributions support our efforts to help more people access lifesaving essentials including food, water, shelter, and medical care.”
While general donations are always very much appreciated, Shelby said there were other fundraising initiatives that promoted wider community involvement including hosting events such as morning teas or participating in The Big Water Walk or The Long Walk for Water challenges.
For more than 60 years, Project Compassion has brought together schools, parishes, communities and individuals to reflect, pray, and act, helping to create a more just world for all.
In 2025, Project Compassion raised $10 million nationally. In the last financial year, Caritas Australia reached more than 2.3 million people via 100 projects across 30 countries.
To learn more visit: https://www.caritas.org.au/