Support gave Thomas internet access during the COVID-19 crisis and beyond

When the pandemic forced school closures, those who were already struggling were hit the hardest. A couple of years ago, Merrily lost her job. That same week her mum was diagnosed with breast cancer and Merrily became her full-time carer. So when Merrily found herself also trying to support her son’s schooling from home, Thomas, it was an impossible situation.

“I wanted Thomas to have a good education because I ended up having to drop out of school. COVID-19 has made it very hard for students. I tried the best I could to teach Thomas, but my own education was very limited,” she said.

Not only did Merrily lack the skills, but she couldn’t afford the internet. It was Merrily’s worst nightmare to see Thomas falling behind because of their circumstances.

“Thomas is very bright. I was worried that his education would suffer and I didn’t want that. He’s very switched on. He loves to learn and he loves going to school,” she said.

“We have a laptop. I saved and saved and went without so he could have it. But the data plans are expensive. Trying to find Wi-Fi for him [during the shutdown] was almost impossible, because the library wasn’t open. And you couldn’t exactly sit around in a shopping centre.”

I wanted Thomas to have a good education because I ended up having to drop out of school. COVID-19 has made it very hard for students. I tried the best I could to teach Thomas, but my own education was very limited.

The pandemic has highlighted the existing issue of the digital divide that affects students growing up in poverty. Through sponsorship, students like Thomas receive financial support for their education needs. And each student is also matched with one of our Learning for Life Coordinators who offer the family guidance and support.

The wrap-around support has been a lifeline for Merrily throughout this crisis and ongoing.

“If I have a problem, I have someone at The Smith Family that I can ring and say, ‘Look, this is what’s going on.’ And now he has the textbooks, laptop and internet that he needs. Our lives wouldn’t be where they are right now without Thomas’ sponsorship,” said Merrily.