Through all life’s ups and downs, school had always been the stable foundation for Edward, 9, and Jackson, 11. But, with one massive challenge after another, their love of learning was almost extinguished. “My children were struggling to stay motivated at school — they didn’t feel part of the team,” says Susan.
Chatty little brother Edward, Year 4, loves basketball. He is now also full of confidence thanks to reading support through our student2student program. “My reading buddy Emily is a good friend,” says Edward. “I struggle sometimes, and she helps me with the words. My favourite book is The Gruffalo's Child and now I just want to read it to my little brother Lawrence.”
“It’s a great program,” says Susan. “They ring up each other and have a chit-chat and read their books out loud together. For Indigenous cultures, traditionally we're an aural based community, so it’s nice this program has that aspect.” Susan is so relieved her boys have given school a second chance. Their teachers have noticed too. “Feedback from Edward’s school is that he is very engaged,” says Susan.
“I don’t think sponsors realise how big a part they’re playing. They’re coming into people’s lives without even knowing them or meeting them. It takes a village to raise a family, and as a Smith Family sponsor, you became part of that village.
“You are willing to support a family who you'll never meet. You are instrumental in that child’s learning journey, and that's huge. Whatever that child may do in the future, you have played a part in that. I don't think there are enough words to say, ‘thank you’.”
