Starting out at only 14 years old, Jack Johnston is a passionate and committed Red Cross Soup Patrol volunteer.

After being introduced to Soup Patrol by his older brother, Jack started volunteering through his school, Aquinas College. He now regularly travels with other students to Fremantle in the patrol van to serve soup, bread and any other food that has been donated to those who need it.

Jack's efforts weren't going to be stopped by COVID-19, and when the pandemic struck, Jack and his family stepped up and undertook COVID-safe soup patrols together.

Jack says that volunteering fulfils him and has given him a new perspective of those less fortunate than himself.

"Volunteering with Soup Patrol has given me an insight into the lives of those who are struggling. It has humanised people who are often portrayed in a bad light on the news and vilified by society," he said.

Jack encourages everyone to volunteer, even if you just have a few hours. The experience has opened his mind and he looks forward to one day becoming a Soup Patrol driver and teaching future Aquinas students the beauty of volunteering.

"Seeing the happiness and hope that people have when the Red Cross pulls up is really special. This experience has really changed my life!"

Volunteer today! To find out more visit www.redcross.org.au/volunteer