Isolating students receive care packages thanks to generosity of alumnae and friends

Amidst a Michaelmas Term like no other with over 60 isolating students at its peak in 5th Week, there was a little sweetener that brought a smile to the faces of those in quarantine. Thanks to the generosity of St Anne’s alumnae and the willingness of our student helpers (big thanks to Sanaa, Ciaran, Hannah, Sinaida, Pippa, Robb and Ye-Ye) the Development Office was able to organise the delivery of individual care packages. Containing an array of treats, including the St Anne’s kitchen’s finest sweet bites, vegan snacks, cosy socks, hand cream, shower gel and a mindfulness adult colouring book with coloured pencils – isolating students were given a clear message: someone cares about you!   

Some of the students were happy to share pictures of themselves with their packages on social media and expressed their thanks both verbally and by email:

“Our house just got care packages delivered, and we just wanted to thank everyone involved!!! The food is such a treat, the fluffy socks are very necessary and we’re going to have a colouring evening tonight!!!

Thanks so much, really brightened our day!! 🌞🌞

 “Thanks so much for the care package, especially the clean socks! It’s very much appreciated and will make a difference for the rest of the time inside.”

The care packages were part of a broader response from St Anne’s Welfare Department that supported students in multiple ways during the heavy restrictions of MT20. Food was delivered to the doors of isolating students 3 times a day; pastoral care was readily available; and safe social opportunities were provided, especially necessary for Freshers. Welfare staff have worked a seven-day roster throughout term. This huge, combined effort was delivered to meet unprecedented challenges, but in the same spirit that St Anne’s is known for: community and support.

To find out more about our Covid-19 Emergency Support Fund, click here.