The Smith Family Winter Appeal - Help kids

While Australians are now experiencing economic hardship, for 680,000 Australian kids, this is the story of their lives. These disadvantaged children do not have access to equal educational, health or life opportunities that many of us enjoy and often take for granted. Through donations, volunteering and sponsorships, you can help kids and their families during the tough economic times this winter.



The Smith Family Winter Appeal seeks to raise at least $4million dollars, to help kids by assisting with school-related expenses like winter school uniforms, excursions and textbooks, as well as providing literacy and mentoring programs. Help kids today so their future is full of opportunity and potential.



What issues do disadvantaged kids face in Australia?



Changes in family structure, the workplace, and across society at large are impacting negatively on children's wellbeing. Tougher financial times will see a growing number of families falling between the cracks and increased hardship for those already struggling. Unless we help kids, the disadvantage they experience today is likely to continue into adulthood - and on to the next generation.

Some disadvantages include:



- Education. One of the biggest issues that disadvantaged kids face is the lack of educational resources. Ir example the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that in 2005/2006, only 44% of disadvantaged families had access to a computer, compared to 87% of high income families. With early intervention, The Smith Family can help kids in these situations improve their motivation at school.



- Financial. Disadvantaged children often cannot afford simple things that we all take for granted, like school books, uniform or excursions. At The Smith Family, we help kids in difficult financial situations through sponsorship programs like Learning For Life, literacy support, mentoring and so much more.



- Social. Unfortunately, some disadvantaged kids can end up socially isolated, especially at school. And when children are left out, they get left behind. Through mentoring, social activities, learning clubs, personal development and support groups, The Smith Family will help kids develop healthy social skills for a brighter future.



- Family struggles. For one reason or another, some parents cannot provide a rich learning environment at home, which studies show often results in poor quality early childhood experiences for their kids, poor home-to-school transitions and lower academic achievement. To help kids overcome these struggles, The Smith Family provides parenting, sponsorship and literacy programs.





How can you help end the cycle of disadvantage?



This winter, you can help kids realise their potential in the following ways:



- Sponsor a child. It doesn't cost much to help kids achieve their best in life. About a dollar a day provides a disadvantaged child with financial assistance, tutoring, access to networks and so much more.



- Donate. Our goal is to raise $4million this winter. Your donation to The Smith Family Winter Appeal helps us help kids through providing educational scholarships, literacy programs, and parenting programs. You can even donate toys, clothes and books.



- Volunteer. This is a fantastic way to help kids if you have some spare time. You can help kids by becoming a tutor or mentor, supervise a learning club, or offer specialised skills like IT, design, administration or marketing.



Please visit our website to learn more about the many practical ways you can help kids through The Smith Family





This article was brought to you by The Smith Family - Help kids through The Smith Family Winter Appeal



The Smith Family is an independent non-profit organisation committed to helping disadvantaged Australian children by unlocking opportunities through education and learning. For more information, visit www.thesmithfamily.com.au