The Connect trial began in 2019 as a program to connect our High School students with the elderly in Aged Care facilities within the Penrith LGA. The result was a group of High School students finding friendships within the aged demographic and our Aged Care residents having purposeful visitors to enjoy their company and stories. With our bus, Our Community Cares picks up and returns students to their respective schools for the visits.

Due to Covid restrictions, this program was on hold until 2023.

As an extension of Connect, in 2023 we introduced the ANN GILHAM SCHOLARSHIP for year 10 students participating in the Connect program. Students are asked to submit a work relating to the life of their chosen resident for judging by a panel. The scholarship will provide two selected students per participating schools with first ($1000) and second prize ($750) to assist with school costs.

In 2024, Jamison High School is taking part in the Connect program and encouraging their year 10 students to submit their entries into the Ann Gilham Scholarship. 2024 many more High Schools have registered their interest in the program and we look forward to working with the teachers and their students.