The Smith Family forced to extend Christmas Appeal

The Smith Family has had to extend its Christmas Appeal to the end of January 2013 in a desperate effort to meet its $4.65 million target to help raise funds for the 11,500 disadvantaged children it supports throughout the year. It still needs to raise just under $1million and is pleading with all Australians to make urgent donations online or by calling 1800 024 069.

"What is most concerning to The Smith Family is that we won't have enough financial and emotional resources available to support the disadvantaged young Australians who most depend on us. Raising these funds is crucial as the focus isn't just on Christmas it's about supporting children's educational needs for the entire year," says Scott Walters, Head of Strategic Partnerships with The Smith Family.

The Smith Family helps disadvantaged Australian children create a better future by supporting their educational needs where 83 cents in every dollar raised goes directly to educational programs. It works in 97 communities across Australia supporting 117,000 disadvantaged children.

"Many Australians still think of The Smith Family as a welfare charity that gives hand outs of food, clothes and blankets to the needy or is just about Christmas. But this is the furthest from the truth as our focus is on education, this alone is what will empower young Australians to create a better future and break the cycle of disadvantage. Every dollar donated  goes directly to the  educational needs of disadvantaged children as this has the most impact for the future of these young Australians," adds Walters.

To urgently donate to The Smith Family's Christmas Appeal call 1800 024 069 or visit the website at thesmithfamily.com.au