Caritas Australia has announced the launch of Project Compassion 2026, its Lenten fundraising and awareness appeal that attracts participation from 1700 schools and 1200 parishes across Australia annually.
This year, Caritas Australia is calling on the community to Unite Against Poverty.
For six weeks, schools, students, parishes and individuals are encouraged to donate, participate in The Long Walk for Water, or sign up to Give it up for Lent.
The theme, Unite Against Poverty, calls to mind a poignant moment in John’s Gospel (Jn 17.23) when, on the night before he died, Jesus prays that they may all be one. It is a prayer for unity, that his friends will stay together and work together to embody his mission, in which the marginalised are central.
This theme is explored through three inspiring stories of individuals and partners from around the world who have overcome challenges in their own lives and gone on to become beacons of hope and resilience in their communities:
- Sisilia is a 13-year-old girl living in Tanzania whose education was disrupted by walking long distances to collect unsafe water.
- Monoranjon is a farmer living in Bangladesh whose crops were being destroyed by floods and storms.
- Manaini is a mother from Fiji who was struggling to earn an income and provide enough food to feed her family.
- Caritas Jerusalem is Caritas Australia’s partner working on the ground in Gaza, where staff serve communities amid danger, displacement, and personal loss.
Kirsten Sayers, CEO at Caritas Australia, said, “Lent invites us to engage in prayer, reflection, and giving. It calls us to look honestly at how we live and to make meaningful sacrifices that uplift those who are struggling.
“As conflicts escalate and natural disasters become more frequent around the world, we are reminded of how many communities are carrying heavy burdens. In turn, we must answer God’s call to meet these challenges with brave and compassionate hearts.”
To lend your support, download resources or learn more about Caritas Australia’s development programs, visit the Project Compassion website. To donate, look for the Project Compassion donation boxes, visit the website, or call 1800 024 413 toll free.