STUDENTS GIVE SUPPLIES FOR MEDICAL SHIP

St Anthony’s Catholic College’s St Vinnie’s group will visit the new YWAM Medical Ship, the MV Ammari today to present their donation of toothbrushes, toothpaste, spectacles, sunglasses and soap for isolated communities in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
The school’s St Vinnies group, facilitated by St Anthony’s Catholic College Chaplain, Geoff Geaney, has been collecting supplies for YWAM’s health and training outreaches in PNG for the last three years.
“We have made a focus of supporting YWAM every third term for the last three years.”
“Last year the students collected 32 cartons of toothbrushes, toothpaste, glasses soap and face washes, this year it will be over 45 cartons – its been a huge response this year, our best yet.” Said Geaney.
The St Vinnies group is about empowering youth to address social justice issues through practical opportunities both locally and abroad.
“The children respond very well towards giving to YWAM because it’s a local-based charity.”
“Every year we have a YWAM team come in and share with our students about their work in PNG and the impact that their donations have made on the lives of people they have met in remote villages – having that personal connection to a charity has been wonderful for the students.” Said Geaney.
YWAM Medical Ships Managing Director, Ken Mulligan said the MV Ammari is in its final week of its 5-week visit before sailing to Cairns on Monday.
“We’ve had a wonderful visit to Townsville – 71 local businesses, schools, service clubs and churches have contributed in some way or another.”
“It is great to see such strong support across all ages and sectors.” Said Mulligan.
Mr Mulligan mentioned his gratitude to Townsville City Council, Port of Townsville, Pacific Marine Group, Southern Cross Austereo and Universal Cranes for their part in facilitating the Ship’s visit to Townsville.
The MV Ammari will open to the public for a final weekend of free tours on Saturday from 10am – 4pm and Sunday from 1pm – 4pm at the Marine Precinct on Sandspit Drive, behind Ross Haven Marine.