VIEW Clubs in the Canberra region are urging the local community to give generously to The Smith Family’s Winter Appeal to support thousands of children and young people with their education as they deal with the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Smith Family aims to raise $5.4 million by 30 June to provide learning and mentoring support programs to children in need. VIEW is the largest community sponsor of students on The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, which is why its members are calling on Australians to get behind the appeal.

The Smith Family’s CEO, Doug Taylor, said support from the public is vital, and will help the charity extend its reach. This is especially important with a national survey conducted by the charity revealing families are still worried about their children’s education, even as Australia emerges from the pandemic.

“Helping students in need who are struggling at school is a focus of The Smith Family’s work. And what we’re seeing in this third year of the pandemic is the need is greater than ever.

“Our survey found that more than half of parents and carers believe COVID is continuing to make schooling difficult for their children, with disrupted routines, illness, and mental health all key concerns. It’s alarming that 70 per cent of respondents said they are worried about their children’s schoolwork in the future.

“We want to extend our tailored learning support programs to help more children over the coming year address these issues, and to ensure they can thrive in their education once again,” he said.

Funds raised will support 12,857 children across Australia to access a range of proven numeracy, reading, and mentoring programs, including after-school Learning Clubs.

Tuggeranong Evening VIEW Club publicity officer Hilary Mende said support from the community is vital in this difficult time.

“COVID has been so disruptive for all of us, but children experiencing disadvantage have felt this impact more than most. By donating to The Smith Family this appeal, we can ensure those children who are most in need can get the best out of their education,” she said.

VIEW (Voice, Interests and Education of Women) is a national women’s organisation and support network, bringing together women to enjoy social activities, develop skills, and make connections – all while supporting Australian children experiencing disadvantage.

For those who are interested to find out more about VIEW or who would like to join, visit view.org.au

VIEW: Founded in 1960 by the General Secretary of The Smith Family, George Forbes, to support the charitable work of The Smith Family, VIEW stands for the Voice, Interests and Education of Women.

As The Smith Family’s largest community sponsor of Learning for Life students, VIEW supports the educational outcomes of more than 1,530 children and young people experiencing disadvantage. Through this powerful, longstanding connection, VIEW is proud to enable better futures for young Australians.

The Smith Family: The Smith Family is a national children’s charity that helps young Australians experiencing disadvantage to succeed at school, so they can create better futures for themselves. Visit thesmithfamily.com.au

Survey Information: The Smith Family Pulse Survey was focused on gathering insights directly from parents and carers about how the pandemic has impacted their child’s school experience. It was open to parents whose children are currently supported through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life education support program, which provides emotional, practical, and financial support to children and young people experiencing disadvantage. The survey was conducted between 1-14 March 2022 and there was a total of 1,164 respondents.