Even the COVID-19 pandemic can’t stop the annual Irish Miracle at St. Patrick’s Catholic High School in Sarnia.  The school’s annual Advent tradition might look a little different for 2020, but it continues to meet a tremendous need in the community – and perhaps this year, an even greater need. 

Every year St. Patrick’s students, teachers and community volunteers come together to collect non-perishable food items for the St. Vincent de Paul Society.  The collection has two purposes: One is to stock the shelves at the food bank for the next few months; and the other is to provide food for the Christmas hampers distributed directly to families with the help of the area parishes.

“This year, after much consideration, St. Pat’s, together with the St. Vincent de Paul Society, have decided that the school will be using an online fundraising model in order to meet the needs of those in our community who depend on us,” says Danielle Kells, staff member at St. Patrick’s and coordinator of Irish Miracle 2020.  “This way we can continue to provide assistance to people who need help and at the same time maintain the necessary precautions due to COVID-19 pandemic.”

Donations can be made directly through the St. Vincent de Paul Sarnia website at  www.ssvpsarnia.ca from November 27th to December 18th. Simply click on the green “Irish Miracle” button at the top right of the page and complete your information. Tax receipts will be distributed through their donation partner, Canadahelps.org.  

“We want to thank everyone for their continued support of the Irish Miracle, even in this year of change,” says Ms. Kells.