Advent Collection Delivered to The Manna Society
Tuesday, 20th January 2026
“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and
sisters of mine, you did for me.”
(Matthew 25:40)
This week, members of our school community had the privilege of delivering the donations gathered through our Christmas Charity initiative to The Manna Society — a long‑established Catholic charity supporting those most in need across South London.
The contributions were received in the crypt of St James’ Church near Surrey Quays, a place steeped in history and closely tied to the Church’s mission of service. Being there offered a powerful and humbling reminder of what lived charity truly means and of our shared responsibility to stand in solidarity with the vulnerable.
We are deeply grateful to all students, families, and staff who gave so generously. Through acts such as these, our school continues to embody its Catholic identity, putting faith into action and responding to Christ’s call to serve others with compassion, dignity, and love.
Thank you for helping our school be the hands and feet of Christ in the world.
Message from The Manna Centre
"Many thanks to all at St Mary’s Catholic High School for your donation of foodstuffs to the Manna Society. Thank you too for taking the time and making the effort to drop your donation off with us. Your donation and ongoing support are vital to our work with some of the most disadvantaged people in our society. Thanks to your generosity, we can continue offering essential services that make a real difference in people’s lives.
Every day, around 120 individuals come through our doors. We ensure each person receives a hot, nutritious meal, access to washing facilities, health care, clothing, housing and welfare advice, and internet access. Based on our August 2025 data, over half (52%) of our service users are rough sleepers, 14% are in hostel accommodation, 12% in privately rented accommodation, 11% staying with friends, 9% in secure socially rented accommodation and the remaining 2% in ‘other’ accommodation.
Our day centre provides a safe, warm, and welcoming space. For some, the meal we provide may be the only one they eat all day. A hot shower, clean clothes, including new underwear and socks for everyone who visits our clothing store, and basic health care help restore a sense of dignity and hope. Our visiting medical professionals, including Nurse Practitioners, Mental Health Workers, and a Podiatrist, play a key role in addressing urgent health issues.
Our Advice Service is often the first step in helping people transition from homelessness to stable accommodation. This may involve assisting with applications for ID, benefits, and housing. For those already housed, we help them maintain their tenancies by ensuring they receive the correct benefits and by offering support with rent and energy arrears. Since April we have assisted over 619 clients with housing & welfare advice.
We are only able to continue to provide these services thanks to your support. On behalf of those who will benefit from your generosity please accept my thanks."
Best wishes,
Paddy Boyle - The Manna Society Administrator
