The students of St. Patrick’s Grammar School have always taken a keen interest in those less fortunate than themselves in living out the aims of the School’s Mission Statement to “Develop as a community that appreciates the Christian values of co-operation, responsible conduct, earnest effort, compassion and mutual respect.”

In association with Blythswood Care, Year 8 students got behind this venture with their usual enthusiasm, keeping within the aim of the appeal, “Give a present to someone who needs it!” The appeal was co-ordinated by our Year 13 students who visited year 8 Form Groups each morning during Registration to collect any shoeboxes brought in. Year 13’s also assisted in the labelling, checking and wrapping of the shoeboxes to ensure appropriate items had been included.

Suggested items for the shoebox appeal included:

       Toiletries (NO TALC)

•          Soap/Shampoo/Shower Gel

•          Face Cloth/Moist Wipes/Sponge

•          Deodorant

•          Moisturising Cream

•          Sanitary Products

•          Toothbrush Toothpaste 

•          Comb/Brush

•          Shaving Foam/Razors

NEW Clothes

•          Socks/Tights

•          Hat/Scarf

•          Gloves

Miscellaneous

•          New Make-up

•          Sewing Equipment

•          Household Candles

•          Screwdrivers/Pliers

       NEW Stationery

·          Pens/Pencils/Sharpener

·          Notepads/Colouring Books

·          Rulers/Rubbers

·          Small Toy

       Sweets

      (Best before date, at least March 09’) NO CHOCOLATE

This year 98 shoeboxes and 196 pounds were collected in St. Patrick’s, which is a magnificent achievement. The students realised that they will have a very positive effect on the people of Eastern Europe this year. This is in keeping with the Religious and Educational Philosophy of the school which has a, “Special concern for the poor and under-privileged.”