St John XXIII Conference Stanhope Gardens had wonderful success at their winter fundraising initiative of selling soups cooked by Conference members and friends at the parish this July. 

“The night was an incredible success, with nearly 100 soups sold,” Roger Perera, Stanhope Gardens Conference, announced. 

“Members took responsibility to cook the soups – some chicken, pumpkin, lentil,” he said. 

“One parishioner actually made a Burmese Laksa. That was very popular!” 

During Winter, the Conference decided it would be appropriate to cook up warm soups. The fundraiser was very cost-effective with member donated ingredients and labour. 

The first batch was sold after a Saturday Vigil Mass, and then more were sold after Sunday morning Mass. The soup fundraising initiative is now in its second year and complements the Conference’s Bunnings BBQ and fundraising appeals. 

“We owe a special thank you to all the wonderful parishioners of St John XXIII Glenwood-Stanhope Gardens,” Roger said. 

“Their unwavering support has significantly impacted the lives of those in need, and we couldn't be more grateful.” 

Stanhope Gardens Conference has a wonderfully supportive parish priest in Fr Jolly Chacko, who regularly attends Conference meetings, and allows the Conference to store supplies under the Church. 

The Conference thanked the parishioners for their support and generosity, noting the Conference’s focus on supporting families experiencing financial hardship, homelessness,  

Thanks to the parish’s enthusiastic participation and kind donations, Stanhope Gardens Conference managed to raise nearly $800 over 24 hours.