Belmont Academy pupils’ help for the homeless

Jun 24 2011 by Lisa Boyle, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

Belmont Academy pupils’ help for the homeless

HOME is where the heart is.

But it’s not something to be taken for granted.

That was the stark lesson for pupils at Belmont Academy.

Third year youngsters took part in a special initiative that will make a massive difference to the lives of homeless people in Ayr.

As part of their religious and moral education course, they have been exploring the issues surrounding homelessness and how different charities have responded to the issue. And so moved were they by what they learned that the pupils wanted to take their lessons further.

So they organised a project to provide one Ayr-based charity with starter packs to help some of the most vulnerable people in the town.

These packs included toiletries, food and other general items which are useful to a homeless person when they enter the homeless system, as they often have nothing.

Pupils managed to create 20 starter packs for the Blue Triangle Housing Association, who are a nationwide charity that work with and provide a service to the homeless.

Ian Watson, one of the religious and moral education teachers at Belmont, explained: “It was fantastic to see the pupils engage with the topic in a way that not only informed them about the problems of homelessness, but gave them the opportunity to contribute positively to these problems.”

And the charity say they are hugely grateful to the big-hearted pupils.

Hayley Cameron, project manager, said: “The management, staff and service users of the Blue Triangle Housing Association were delighted to accept the very kind donation of starter packs from the third year pupils at Belmont Academy.

“The young people we are supporting have been extremely touched and overwhelmed that the pupils have cared enough to make such a lovely gesture.

“No item will go unused and we would like to convey our appreciation.”