I’m writing to express my deep appreciation to everyone across the ACT who supported The Smith Family’s 2022 Back to School Appeal.

Our vision is to help young Australians experiencing disadvantage to create better futures for themselves. We launched our Appeal calling for extra support to help students re-engage with their education, after another tough year due to COVID-19.

For families and their children, this year’s return to school may have been the toughest yet. Not only are we concerned the pandemic has exacerbated the gap in learning outcomes between children living in poverty and their more advantaged peers, we’re also worried families are facing more hardships, including rising living costs, a housing affordability crisis, and ongoing impacts of the digital divide.

When any family faces ongoing financial difficulties, it makes it harder for them to support their children’s education. We know there are still thousands of young Australians who don’t have access to the education essentials they need to learn, and we’re concerned it’ll be those who can least afford it, who’ll continue to struggle.

Our Learning for Life education program provides emotional, practical and financial support to children and young people. And thanks to the wonderfully generous response to our sponsorship appeal, we’ll be able to provide around 3,000 more students with evidence-based and life-changing support for the duration of their education. To learn more about Learning for Life, and how you can be part of a growing community of sponsors tackling the effects of poverty on the education of young Australians, visit thesmithfamily.com.au

For 100 years, The Smith Family has been working to improve the lives of children in need. Our goal is to have a lasting and positive impact on students and families, and generations to come. So, to everyone who generously contributed to our Appeal – thank you very much.

Doug Taylor | Chief Executive Officer | The Smith Family

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