The Mini Vinnies are the youngest members of the St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP), an international Christian voluntary organisation dedicated to tackling poverty in all its forms by providing practical assistance to people in need.
At St Mary’s our Mini Vinnies group is made up of Years 5 and 6 pupils who want to live out their mission within our local and global community.
This year has seen a huge number of applications for Mini-Vinnies all keen to help in the school and enrich the community.

Following the school’s Harvest Mass of thanks, Mini-Vinnies helped to collect and organise the tins and packets of non-perishable goods, which were generously donated to the school, ready to deliver to the local food bank. All types – both edible and cosmetic – were gratefully received.

At this time of year, as always, children are selling poppies – and a great range of merchandise to mark Armistice Day – in the playground before and after school to raise money for the Poppy Appeal. The collection box is already very heavy but there is still plenty to buy so please do take a look.

Looking towards the end of the Advent term, the Mini-Vinnies are already practising to sing a selection of Christmas carols and Advent favourites to parents after school in December. Because Mini-Vinnies don’t only raise money for causes, we also hope to organise for them to share this special time by singing to (and with) residents of Kirkley Manor Care Home to put everyone into the Christmas spirit!