Despite the difficulties for her mother to afford school fees, Irene attended school for as long as she could.

Spending most of his time at home completing household chores with his family, harvesting vegetables, feeding chickens and cooking meals, Lam felt increasingly isolated and far from his dream of becoming a graphic designer.

Through the support of Caritas Australia and the generosity of its supporters, Caritas Australia was able to partner with Caritas Samoa to support Toefu-ata’iga’s school.

Caritas Australia has announced the launch of Project Compassion 2025, its Lenten fundraising and awareness appeal. Annually, 1,700 schools and 1,200 parishes across Australia take part, with Caritas Australia calling on the community to Unite Against Poverty for Project Compassion this year.

Each year, 1,700 schools and 1,200 parishes across Australia take part through school and parish events that remain at the heart of Project Compassion.

Growing up, Ronita’s family faced many challenges. She grew up with her mum, who worked three jobs because Ronita’s father left their family.

In Perth, the launch of Project Compassion was held Tuesday 13 February at St Brigid’s Catholic College in Lesmurdie, with representatives from 65 schools across the state joining in online.

Laxmi is now excelling in her studies and working towards her dream of becoming a civil engineer. She has become a mentor to other girls in her village, encouraging them to stand up for their rights and creating lasting change For All Future Generations.

Every day, more than 200 million children miss out on school, around 690 million people experience extreme hunger and 2.2 billion people cannot access clean drinking water.

Perth Catholics have this year been invited to think about the great yes that Mary spoke when the angel told her she was to become the mother of Jesus.