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These students take action to create change

24 March 2020
“When we researched disadvantage in Australia, we were all shocked at the reality that some families face. The idea of not having a uniform that fits or books for class was something the boys had never really thought about before,” said high school teacher, Mr O’Kane.

Disadvantaged students face many challenges at school. Your donations help us provide vital learning program support. We combine this with sponsorship from our sponsors, so students have the essentials they need for school.

At Mr O’Kane’s school, tutor groups bring together boys in Years 7 to 12. The groups are encouraged to give for the benefit of others. So the boys came up with a plan to raise the money to sponsor a student in need.
“They raised the money themselves at school. It was easy and the boys enjoyed it. They sold chocolates and held a barbecue in the playground,” said Mr O’Kane.

It has been a wonderful way to connect students from different backgrounds. And the boys get a real buzz out of exchanging letters with their sponsored student.

“I remember when they got the first letters from the student and his mum. They were so pumped to see how much the support meant to them,” said Mr O’Kane.

“I remember when they got the first letters from the student and his mum. They were so pumped to see how much the support meant to them,” said Mr O’Kane.

“The boys all wrote on a birthday card for their sponsored student. I imagine he feels pretty special to have a bunch of friends who care about his birthday.  

“As a group, they are definitely more aware of how lucky they are with their own lives and education. It’s good as well for their self-esteem – to know that they are doing a good thing.”

If you would like to find out more about sponsorship, visit thesmithfamily.com.au/sponsor-a-child