Officeworks has kicked off its yearly Back to School Appeal with an ambitious target of raising one million dollars to support Australian children who lack essential learning tools.
A Million-Dollar Mission for Education Equality
The funds collected will directly benefit students enrolled in The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. The money is designated for critical educational resources, including school supplies, uniforms, footwear, and funding for camps and excursions. It will also provide personalised educational support to help bridge the opportunity gap.
Television presenter and journalist Sarah Harris, who serves as an ambassador for the appeal, helped launch the initiative. Her involvement included a visit to one of The Smith Family's programs located in Melbourne.
How Australians Can Contribute
Officeworks is making it simple for customers to donate. Contributions can be made at the checkout when shopping online, in any Officeworks store nationwide, or by purchasing a specific charity product like a box of bounce balls. The company confirms that every single donation goes straight to The Smith Family’s program, with no deductions.
John Gualtieri, the Managing Director of Officeworks, emphasised the core belief driving the campaign. "We believe that every child should have equal access to education," he stated. "We know that having the right supplies and support around them can be the difference between a child feeling left out or walking into the classroom feeling confident, included and ready to learn."
Gualtieri also highlighted the campaign's impressive history, noting that over 13 years, the collective efforts of customers, team members, and partners have raised more than $10.6 million. This sustained support has assisted over 15,800 students across Australia.
Long-Term Impact and Campaign Timeline
The appeal is set to run until February 8, giving the community several weeks to rally behind the cause. Doug Taylor, CEO of The Smith Family, spoke about the transformative power of the partnership with Officeworks.
"Early support and intervention in a young person’s education can have a lasting impact that changes their future," Taylor said. He pointed to compelling outcomes, revealing that 85 per cent of Learning for Life students were engaged in employment, education, or training two-and-a-half years after finishing school. "This reaffirms why it’s crucial that we help all students and their families get the tools and support they need," he concluded.
The annual appeal represents a significant community effort to ensure financial hardship is not a barrier to a child's education and confidence in the classroom.
