Mini Vinnies

"Mini Vinnies" is a program initiated by the St. Vincent de Paul Society (Vinnies), a charitable organisation that operates globally. The Mini Vinnies program is designed to engage young people, particularly in school settings, in volunteer and community service activities. The idea is to inspire children to become active contributors to their communities, developing a sense of social responsibility and empathy.

In school, our Mini Vinnies group is typically student-led and supported by Mrs Gallagher. Children participate in various activities that align with the values of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, such as fundraising for people in need, collecting donations, or organising community outreach programs. These initiatives have included Harvest collections for Streets 2 Homes, Community work within the Parish, serving lunches, meeting with other Mini Vinnies from St Lukes and St Albans to discuss what work we have been doing with our Mini Vinnies and celebrating St Vincent De Paul and Frederic Ozanam’s birthday, by joining schools for an afternoon tea and Prayers. This academic year we will also be working with St Marks who have recently started a Youth SPV group. Our fundraiser this year is a non-uniform day for Rainbow Services in Harlow who provide lots of services for the community, including bereavement support, homeless support, getting active and promoting wellbeing in the community. The children wanted to support this local charity as many of our children have benefited from their services.

Some key aspects of Mini Vinnies in school settings include:

1. Child Leadership: Children take on leadership roles, helping to organise and run the programs. Time for Prayer and reflection.         
2. They learn how to manage projects, collaborate with others, and make a positive impact on their community.
3. Community Service: Children engage in service activities that benefit their local community, such as helping the homeless, supporting families in crisis, or raising awareness about social justice issues.
4. Empathy and Values: The program emphasises the importance of kindness, empathy, and respect for others, encouraging children to think beyond themselves and contribute to the greater good.
5. Reflection: Children often reflect on their experiences, discussing how the activities have impacted them and the people they have helped. This reflection fosters personal growth and a deeper understanding of social responsibility.
6. Partnership with Vinnies: Mini Vinnies groups often work in collaboration with the broader St. Vincent de Paul Society, participating in campaigns and initiatives to help vulnerable individuals and families. Our Mini Vinnies have attended events in Southwark Cathedral in London.

In addition to its community service aspects, Mini Vinnies helps build a sense of belonging and teamwork amongst children, and encourage them to take an active role in creating a more compassionate world.

Holy Cross Mini Vinnies 2024/25

Year 5- Amiee, Harry, Keaton. Parker and Luna

Year 6- Sian, Ella, Ellie, Ohemaa, David, Annaliesa. Amber and Ellis

    

Our Mini Vinnies’ Prayer

Lord, Thank you for our gifts and talents.                                                        

Lord, Show us who needs our help.

Lord, Use our hands to help those who are hungry.

Lord, Open our hearts to love and comfort those who are sad and lonely.

Lord, Let us share our time, gifts and talents with those in need.

Lord , Help us to care for the sick.

Lord, May we all help and support each other as Mini Vinnies to build a better world.

Amen