Queenslanders urged to “share Christmas” to help young Australians in need

Queenslanders are being encouraged to dig deep this holiday season to help provide a better future for disadvantaged children through the Smith Family’s annual Christmas appeal.

The charity’s annual Christmas Appeal will help thousands of disadvantaged children with their schooling.

Minister for Child Safety, Youth and Women Di Farmer launched the educational charity’s annual campaign today at Yeronga State High School with Smith Family General Manager in Queensland Alan Le May and Member for Miller Mark Bailey.

“Every child deserves the same hope and opportunity as the next, but for children who are growing up in families that are struggling financially, it can be difficult to fully engage with learning and complete their schooling,” Ms Farmer said.

“The Palaszczuk Government is so proud to support the Smith Family’s Christmas Appeal, and kick start the giving with a contribution of $100,000.

“I’d encourage Queenslanders to share the spirit of giving in the lead up to this Christmas, and make a donation to help the Smith Family help children in need.”

Students from Yeronga State High School also fundaraised for the charity throughout the year, and presented Mr Le May with a cheque for $200.

Mr Le May said it was a key time to help families doing it tough.

“Christmas should be a special time for families but for children affected by disadvantage, it’s just another time they go without,” Mr Le May said.

‘Right now, there are 1.1 million young Australians growing up in poverty.

“Many are struggling daily with the effects of financial hardship brought on by accidents, illness or unemployment within the family.

“These challenges at home can flow on to affect children’s school lives.

“Children can end up feeling excluded and start to disengage from their learning.

“This increases their risk of leaving school early and we know from our research that finishing Year 12 is the best chance they have to create a better future for themselves.”

Mr Bailey said the Smith Family aimed to raise $3.8 million nationally through the appeal, which would help more than 9,000 children nationally.

“By donating to the Smith Family Christmas Appeal, you’re helping the Smith Family provide essential learning support and mentoring programs to help kids catch up and keep up at school, and navigate the transition from education to employment,” Mr Bailey said.

“Here at Yeronga State High School, the Smith Family delivers two programs to support students – Work Inspiration, to help prepare students for the world of work, and Certificate 1 in Financial Services, to help students develop money management skills.

“There are forty-one students undertaking these programs, and it’s making a huge difference.

“I encourage Queenslanders who can to chip in to the appeal – because every Queensland child should have the opportunity to shine.”

ENDS

Media contact: Cat Milton 0447 117 132