News Archive December 2009

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD

St Mary’s Charity Group excelled itself during “Operation Christmas Child.” The operation, run by Samaritan’s Purse, involves preparing a shoebox’s worth of presents for children in Eastern Europe and Africa who would not receive a gift at Christmas if it were not for the charity. In total, 31 shoeboxes were provided, crammed with presents donated by staff and students along with over £100 to cover the international delivery costs. A big thanks to all involved for their generosity!





CAUSE HAMPER CAMPAIGN

The College’s participation in the annual CAUSE Christmas Hamper Campaign was a real success this year. The College produced twelve hampers for some of the poorest families on Teesside who would be without presents on Christmas Day without the generosity of students and staff. Included in hampers were gifts for children such as footballs, books and dolls and Christmas foods such as cakes and chocolate. Thank you to all involved!

Letter of thanks from the Council

We would like to thank you on behalf of the most vulnerable children within Middlesbrough for your kindness and generosity during Christmas 2009. The hampers and gifts that you kindly donated were undoubtedly of the highest standard that many of us have ever experienced, each of which went to very grateful families and brought smiles to many children and young people in Middlesbrough during the lead up to Christmas.

Your hard work and effort does not go un-noticed and, as ever, we are extremely grateful for the hard work and organising that goes into the hamper appeal each year.

Thanks again.

Yours sincerely

Emma Wright,
Senior Practitioner – East Locality, Middlesbrough Family Services



OLD FOLKS' CHRISTMAS PARTY



In keeping with our tradition, the College held a Christmas party for the senior citizens of our local community. The day began with an Advent Mass and continued with carols and music from College students and staff. Soloists included teachers Mary Sproxton and Len Collings, and students Clare Tunney and Sam Haley. Guests also received raffle prizes, Christmas cards and presents from the College.

Many thanks go to Jack’s Coaches, KeyStage Recruitment, Middlesbrough Football Club, Barnacles Fish Restaurant, Tesco Stores, Morrisons, and Mr P Gibbon for their kind donations in aid of the event.



SMC'S GOT TALENT

Along with other end-of-term activities, the College held a talent contest in December. Various acts performed, including a number of bands, a stand-up comedian, dancers, and even an act which consisted of wearing as many socks as possible!

Despite all performances being of a high standard, the judges declared Sam Haley the winner with her piano and vocal rendition of “Feelin’Good”, made famous by Nina Simone and Muse. The event was enjoyed by all and raised nearly £100 for Teesside Hospice.



CHRISTMAS COLLEGE PARTY

The 2009 Christmas Party was a great success. Over 200 students attended the party at the Acklam Garden City Social Club which was organised by student presidents, Faye Buckton and Salma Iqbal. Students’ faces indicated that they all enjoyed it!

The Student Association made a large profit from the party which will be used for the Leavers’ Party to be held at the end of the College year.

Faye and Salma are very eager to organise other events so any ideas are very welcome. We would like to give a big thanks to the people who helped make the party happen!