Chaplain helps Evie smile and sparkle at school formal

This year, one of our chaplains was supporting a high school student with a difficult home life. We’ll call her Evie.*

Evie shared with her chaplain that she desperately wanted to attend her school formal but didn’t have a dress to wear. Determined to help, the chaplain searched local op shops and eventually sourced one through the support from a generous volunteer.

When the volunteer learned the dress was for a student in need, they said, “Wait here. I think we can help. There is a new donation out the back but we haven’t unpacked it yet. Come back tomorrow.” The next day, the chaplain returned to find two beautiful formal dresses that had not yet been placed on the shop floor. When Evie saw them, she selected one and was thrilled and at the same time, shed tears of joy.

Evie attended the formal looking and feeling wonderful. More importantly, she was able to share in an important school experience alongside her friends. The smile she wore when she saw her chaplain the following week said it all.

Moments like these remind us that chaplaincy is about more than support at school—it is about helping young people feel included, valued, and able to participate in opportunities that many of us take for granted.

Your support helps make stories like Evie’s possible. By donating or becoming involved in your local chaplaincy support group, you can help ensure more young people have the encouragement, practical support, and sense of belonging they need to thrive.

To support chaplaincy, visit korusconnect.org.au/donate or get involved with your local chaplaincy support group today.