HUNDREDS of students kicked 'sock-er' goals on Tuesday as a fundraising challenge for kids in need was launched in Newcastle.
More than 30 schools came together to launch 'Socktober', a partnership between Catholic Mission and the Diocese of Maitland Newcastle, to raise money for children in Mongolia.
Each of the Hunter schools are running their own fundraiser but joined in on a fun day in the sun at McDonald Jones Stadium with prayer, speeches and soccer activities.
"The main thing is to bring everyone together to show them they're not alone, it is a very communal program and everyone is working together for the greater good," Catholic Mission's national school engagement manager Angus Rowan said.
It's the second time the event has been run in Newcastle and organisers hope Socktober will continue in future years.
Mr Rowan said the local support for the initiative had been great to see, and on Tuesday, more than 400 students were able to be involved in the launch.
"I think it's amazing, I think it shows the work the diocese and Catholic Mission is doing across the area is having a great impact," he said.
The theme for 2024 is 'go and invite everyone to the banquet', and the focus is on raising money for a safe house for abandoned children in Mongolia.
Socktober aligns with World Mission Month and allows students, teachers, family and friends to financially support disadvantaged communities and raise awareness.
Football was chosen as a basis for Socktober because it's a universal game.
