On Friday 20 June 2014 more than 50 brave young students from Years 4 -7, parents and a number of school staff faced the challenge of sleeping at school in either the undercover area or school library. 

The aim of the St Joachim's School Sleep-Out was to provide students with a tangible experience of what it would be like to be homeless as well as raising student awareness about the realities faced by people considered to be homeless by sleeping out in a simulated controlled environment. 

The funds raised go towards the building of a DVD library for residents of Brisbane Common Ground, Hope Street, South Brisbane. Brisbane Common Ground is a sustainable housing solution for people who have experienced chronic homelessness and people earning low to moderate incomes.

During the night the students had the opportunity to listen to presentations from Kristie McKean, St Vincent de Paul, and Natasha Rodrigues from Micah Projects. The students reflected on what they know and understand about those facing homelessness in our community, participate in poverty and wealth distribution games and work in teams to construct cardboard shelters. 

Congratulations to all students, parents and staff involved in the first St Joachim’s Sleep-Out.

Chris Thomas
Principal​
June 2014