Back To School 2022 | The Smith Family

Amy’s family was plunged into sudden poverty when her dad was injured in a terrible motor accident. He now lives with severe disabilities and is no longer able to work, so Amy’s mum has become his full-time carer.

The family often struggles with paying for essentials like power and groceries, which makes life at home very hard at times. There is no money left over for the essentials like uniform, books and learning materials that Amy needs for school.

Amy is as hardworking and capable as any of her classmates. She is brimming with potential and has so much to offer – if only she can get the chance.

But growing up in poverty means Amy lives with daily hardships and stress other children don’t face.

Weighed down by worry or exhaustion, she often finds it hard to concentrate or take part in class. She spends her breaks sitting alone or hiding in the library because she stands out for all the wrong reasons.

At home, there’s no one with the time or skills to help her understand or catch up on what she’s missed.

Amy is one of the 1 in 6 children in Australia who are growing up in poverty.¹

Many of these children will be behind before they even set foot through the school gates for this new school year. In the years ahead, the gap may widen rapidly.

Imagine how demoralising it must be to see your classmates pulling ahead, no matter how hard you work.

Amy is already starting to question the point of trying so hard. How long will it be before she loses all motivation – and with it her chance to get the most from her education.

As a child sponsor, you can help a child like Amy catch up, fit in, and rebuild their confidence. You can make sure they have access to the long-term educational support they need.

Research has shown that early intervention and balanced, ongoing support throughout their education improves life outcomes for a student living with disadvantage.²

If you sponsor a child like Amy today, you can give them that crucial support – and a greater chance of attending school regularly, completing their education to Year 12, and going on to pursue a fulfilling career.³