General News
28 May, 2026
PJ & Beanie Day raises $730
Students at St Joseph’s School turned compassion into action on Friday, May 22, taking the lead in a heartfelt PJ & Beanie Day and raising $730.
The day was about raising awareness about cancer and supporting those whose lives have been impacted by it.
Organised by the school’s Junior Red Cross and Mission Group, the event invited students and staff to wear pyjamas and/or beanies to school in support of cancer warriors, survivors, families and loved ones remembered with love.
The school community also created a powerful photo tribute after families were invited to send in photos of loved ones who have been touched by cancer, whether they are currently fighting, have overcome cancer, or are remembered fondly.
The tribute formed a major part of the school’s morning prayer and was shown again at recess, when family members joined students and staff for morning tea.
Grade 5/6 students played an important role in the fundraising effort by providing slices, cupcakes and other treats for students and families to purchase.
Students were also asked to make a donation on the day.
Together, the school raised an incredible $730 for the Cancer Council.
Principal Cynthia Maiden said the day gave the school community an important opportunity to stand together.
“This was an important opportunity for us to stand together to show care, compassion and support for cancer warriors and their families,” she said.
“We have so many families and staff members who have been touched by cancer, and this event was about showing unity and support to them, and all cancer sufferers and their families.
“The day was also an opportunity to raise funds for the Cancer Council, whose important work supports cancer research, prevention programs and services for those affected by cancer.”
Ms Maiden said it’s her dream to live in a world free of cancer.
“Through this simple act of wearing PJs and beanies, we hoped to remind our students of the importance of kindness, empathy and helping others in times of need,” she said.
“It’s my dream that one day we will live in a world without cancer, and hopefully our efforts on the day can help lead us all towards that dream.”
Students said raising money for the Cancer Council was important because it helped people continue their fight.
Jagger - Grade 6, said it was important to raise money “so that people can receive treatment for their cancer and they can get the support and help they need so that they can keep fighting.”
Tamani - Grade 5, said the money could help “so that people can get more treatment and get better soon.”
Diyon - Grade 4, said he hoped the fundraising would help “so that we can find a cure for the people fighting cancer so they can return to their families and lives.”
For many students, being involved in the day was also about recognising the strength of people affected by cancer.
“Recognising the people who are fighting cancer and the struggles they face,” Ariat said.
“We are respecting and acknowledging those who have been affected by cancer and those still fighting,” Ruby said.
Sophie said she felt proud to contribute.
“I got to help those with cancer by raising some money and being able to donate money made from selling homemade slices,” Sophie said.
Millie said she enjoyed taking part in the fundraising effort.
“I liked helping make slices and making other people feel better about their loved ones who have cancer,” Millie said.
The success of PJ & Beanie Day showed the strength of the St Joseph’s School community and the impact young people can make when they take such initiatives.