Nourishing Bodies and Souls: De La Salle College Revesby Heights' One Meal Program

A group of dedicated students and parents from De La Salle College, Revesby Heights, embodied the true spirit of Lasallian education by participating in the One Meal Program. This initiative, which has run three times this year alone, is a testament to the school's unwavering commitment to the Lasallian pillars of Faith, Service, and Community.

The One Meal Program is more than just a charitable endeavour; it's a manifestation of faith through action. By preparing and serving meals to those in need, the De La Salle community puts into practice the teachings of Saint John Baptist de La Salle, who emphasised the importance of serving others as an expression of one's faith.

Last month, the college community prepared over 80 delicious meals, sides, and desserts. This generosity and compassion demonstrate how faith can be a powerful motivator for positive change in our communities.

The program exemplifies the Lasallian commitment to service. Students like Elijah Honeine, John-Paul Farah, Justin Garzaniti, Orlando Jansen, Cameron Flannery and their parents took time out of their busy schedules to serve meals at the Riverwood Community Centre. Their dedication shows that service is not just a concept taught in classrooms but a lived experience that shapes character and builds empathy.

The variety of prepared meals – from butter chicken and rice to pasta bake and potato salad to homemade desserts – reflects the care and thought put into this service. It's not just about providing food; it's about offering comfort, dignity, and a taste of home to those who might be struggling.

The One Meal Program does more than feed the hungry; it strengthens the fabric of the entire Lasallian community. De La Salle College Revesby Heights fosters unity and shared purpose by involving students, parents, and staff in this initiative. The program creates connections between the school and the broader community, breaking down barriers and building bridges of understanding and compassion.

Moreover, the involvement of parents in preparing and purchasing meals demonstrates how the Lasallian mission extends beyond the school gates, influencing families and the wider community.

De La Salle College Revesby Heights' One Meal Program is a shining example of Lasallian education in practice. It shows how schools can integrate the pillars of Faith, Service, and Community into meaningful, impactful initiatives that benefit students and the wider community.

Through the One Meal Program, De La Salle College Revesby Heights is embodying the first of the Corporal Works of Mercy by feeding the hungry and nurturing compassionate, service-oriented young people who will carry the Lasallian spirit into the world.

As we celebrate the success of this program, we are reminded of the words of Saint John Baptist de La Salle: "Touch the hearts of your students and inspire them with the Christian spirit. This is the greatest miracle you can perform and the one that God asks of you, since this is the purpose of your work."

As we look to the future, may this inspiring initiative continue to grow, touching more lives and inspiring other Lasallian schools to find innovative ways to live out our shared values. The One Meal Program is more than just a school project: it's a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of community, and a living embodiment of the Lasallian legacy.

Source: Kate Mason, Communications Manager