Ashamedly, we sometimes take for granted the privileges we have as an Australian society. Whilst this isn't the case for every Aussie family, for many, if our children want to play football, we register them, buy their uniform, pads, and boots, and get ready for the wintery early mornings on the sideline.

But for children in Laos, it's a different story. The Lao Football Federation and Aintree Energy, in association with the SingaCup (an amateur youth football tournament where Mr Joshua Baissari connected with the organisers) had a goal of assisting young footballers in Laos. The annual charity event, The SingaCup Football Experience, observed the passion the young boys and girls have for the game as they participated in various activities held in Laos' capital, Vientiane.

Event organisers were struck by the fact that many of these children are not able to afford basic equipment such as football boots and training shoes. In response, the SingaCup launched a donation drive.

In 2024, the College encouraged students to bring in their pre-loved football boots/training shoes to donate to this cause. These donations meant that children less fortunate could experience the joy of playing football, using proper equipment, and even the 'simple' chance to lace up their own boots and training shoes.

Mr Baissari shared this heart about this project. “Jesus tells us that to whom much is given, much is required – if any small effort on our part can make a positive difference to someone else, let’s gladly do it. I have no need of unused boots/sports shoes and the thought that someone could benefit from it and the shoes not ending up in landfill was a big motivator for me.”

We want to thank everyone in our community for their kind generosity. We know that each of these boots/shoes has brought joy, excitement, and passion to the lives of a young person. What a joy it is to share Jesus' love in this practical way.