STUDENTS at Xavier Catholic College are putting their best foot forward to raise awareness around homelessness in Hervey Bay.

Year 12 Health students organised a ‘Relay for Homelessness’ earlier this month.

The event saw students and staff walk laps of the College oval for 12-hours from 6pm on Wednesday 3 May until 6am the following morning.

Participants walked in hour-long shifts and spent the night sleeping rough on the oval.

College Captain Charlotte Davies said, while they were looking to raise money to donate to organisations assisting the homeless in Hervey Bay, their ‘Relay for Homelessness’ was primarily about getting them out of their comfort zones and creating awareness.

“Our class has spent some time learning about homelessness and we felt there was an opportunity for us to do something about it – not just to raise money – but also awareness by taking on this challenge,” Charlotte said.

“Seeing people out there who are struggling really puts it into perspective how privileged we are - being able to go to a good school, have a safe home to go to every night and be supported by a loving family. This is something not everyone in our community has and we wanted to make a difference.”

Year 12 Health teacher, Tracy Grambower said she was proud when students come up with the idea of the overnight relay.

Mrs Grambower said money raised will be used to buy meal vouchers, hygiene products and other essentials.

“There are so many people on the edge of homelessness, and with the cost of living going up, it really could be anyone – the person you’re sitting or working next to,” she said.

Money raised will be donated to organisations like the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre, the Red Cross and We Care 2.

Businesses and community members wanting to support the Year 12 Health students’ cause can contact the College and reach out to Mrs Tracy Grambower. 

For more information, call 07 4197 1177 or Email psherveybay@bne.catholic.edu.au.