In 2022, the theme of Project Compassion is ‘For All Future Generations’ and reminds us that the good that we do today will impact the lives of generations to come. It invites us all to make the world a better place by working together now to find long-term solutions to pressing global issues. 

This year’s theme comes from the biblical story of Noah’s Ark.  After the flood waters subsided, a rainbow appeared in the sky and the dove returned with an olive branch indicating a new beginning. God said, ‘This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations’ (Genesis 9:12). 

The support of Catholic schools and parishes helps us to continue our life-changing work in vulnerable communities around the world. From livelihoods programs in India, to education and training in the Solomon Islands, to improving access to water in Mozambique, Project Compassion 2022 shares the stories of resilient and inspiring individuals whose lives and futures have been impacted by the ongoing support of our partners and by your generosity. 

This includes the story of 12-year-old Anatercia from Mozambique. After her father passed away and her mother became incapacitated due to chronic health issues, life became a daily struggle. 

She moved in with her elderly grandparents, and began to take on more and more adult responsibilities. She did most of the household chores and had to travel for hours every day to collect clean water. Water scarcity also meant that harvests were poor and there was never enough to eat. 

With your support, Caritas Australia’s local partner, Caritas Regional Chokwe was able to help Anatercia’s family to irrigate their farm to improve their food security, while also improving water access for households in the village. Anatercia received essential school supplies and access to psychosocial supports through a local health committee.

Now, Anatercia can easily access clean drinking water, community members are able to grow healthy crops year-round, and there is enough nutritious food to eat. Anatercia feels better supported by her community, has more time to study and do her homework, and hopes to one day fulfil her dream of becoming a nurse.

This Lent, your generosity is the pebble that allows Caritas Australia to create the ripples that will improve the livelihoods of vulnerable communities, supporting them to flourish and create opportunities for future generations to live to their full potential.