News
25 January, 2025
Officeworks’ donation plea
Officeworks is calling on the community to help support students in need, by donating to this year’s Back to School Appeal, aiming to raise vital funds to support thousands of Australian students in need through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program.
Over the 12-year partnership, the Appeal has transformed the lives of over 60,000 students impacted by poverty and raised more than $9 million for The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program.
All funds raised go directly to the Learning for Life program, empowering them through the additional learning programs and personal support.
Brooklyn’s mother, Breeanne, said the funding helps families affected by poverty to afford their child’s essential school supplies. The program also provides personal support and access to additional educational initiatives, keeping students motivated, engaged, and connected to their learning journey.
Community members can donate to this year’s appeal in-store or online from now until February 9.
13-year-old Brooklyn and her mum Breeanne are one family supported on the Learning for Life program and say The Smith Family has eased financial stress and opened new doors for them.
“It’s important for my future,” Brooklyn said.
“I think The Smith Family has taken a lot of stress off my mum and stepdad. It helps us get school uniforms and school shoes, which really helps, and it helps us pay for camp and excursions.
“It’s really hard to prioritise – everything’s important when you’ve got little kids,” she said.
Brooklyn recalled her first year of high school being “really good,” being able to focus on her learning due to having all the necessary supplies.
Breeanne said the program has helped make life easier, saying “life was tough” trying to choose what was more important to spend money on: petrol or food.
“One of the things I’m most proud of myself for is I’m a good learner, and I love learning,” she said.
“Having the things that I need to be able to learn is important for my future.”
“I’m going to camp soon, and if I didn’t get to go, I think I would feel really left out.”
The Smith Family’s CEO, Doug Taylor, said the appeal has created opportunities for thousands of young people experiencing disadvantage.
“Our focus is on helping students to make the most of their education, by providing them with the essentials they need to start the school year, and tailored learning and mentoring support so they can keep up with their peers and stay engaged with their education,” he said.
Officeworks Managing Director Sarah Hunter said every child should have equal access to a quality education.
The community can donate in all Officeworks stores or online from now until February 9.
More info at www.officeworks.com.au
