Earring the call of those in need
Schools
When Scarlett Tonkin began making earrings to fill in time during lockdown last year she had no idea her fun designs would be such a hit.
Even more astounding has been the amount of money raised from sales, which is being donated to support women experiencing homelessness in Adelaide.
Twelve months after baking her first pair of colourful polymer clay earrings, the Year 6 student at Nazareth Catholic College has donated $3000 to support the work of Catherine House, and she is hoping to add more to the tally this year.
The outstanding achievement will be officially recognised on May 12 when Scarlett will attend a ceremony at Government House where she will be presented the inaugural Catherine House Young Achiever Award by the Governor, Hieu Van Le.
“I’ve never been to Government House before so I’m really looking forward to it,” the 11 year old told The Southern Cross during a break from classes at Nazareth’s Findon campus.
“I never thought the earrings would be so popular and it’s been great that I’ve been able to help the women at Catherine House.”
Admitting she is not particularly interested in arts and crafts, Scarlett said if it hadn’t been for the lockdown in the April school holidays last year she may have never started making the earrings.
However, after selling a few pairs to her aunties and cousins for a gold coin donation, she realised people liked her designs.
As interest grew, an Instagram page was created (Scarlett of Pimpernel) and soon orders began rolling in.
With some media attention and publicity at Christmas time, orders “got crazy” with about 150 pairs being sold, including to people interstate and overseas.
Scarlett explained that she doesn’t set a price for the earrings but instead asks the buyer to give what they think they are worth. All money raised is donated to charities, including Vinnies and Catherine House.
Catherine House Fundraising, Events and Marketing manager Jaylee Cooper said Scarlett’s efforts were inspirational and making a real difference.
“When Scarlett contacted us last year to let us know she would be making a donation to Catherine House through the proceeds of her earrings we were absolutely thrilled,” she said.
“Scarlett spoke of wanting to do something for those that were less fortunate than her and wanting to make a difference. It was so wonderful to see someone at such a young age wanting to contribute and make a difference in their community and Scarlett has certainly done that for the women staying at Catherine House.
“We hope that Scarlett’s passion to support the vulnerable in the community will encourage other young people to know they too can make a difference.”
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