An additional 2,000 Australian students impacted by poverty will receive support through The Smith
Family’s Learning for Life program this year after Officeworks and its customers raised more than $1.3 million through the retailer’s annual Back to School Appeal.
Officeworks’ 2024 Back to School Appeal, which ran from December 26 to February 11, raised funds for The Smith Family’s Learning for Life sponsorship program. Funds raised will help families impacted by poverty afford the cost of their child’s essential school supplies like uniforms, books and excursions, as well as providing personal support and extra educational programs.
Over the course of its more than a decade long partnership with The Smith Family, Officeworks’ customers and team members have contributed more than $9 million through the retailer’s annual Back to School Appeal, enabling The Smith Family to provide more than 14,000 one-year Learning for Life scholarships for students across Australia.
The Smith Family CEO, Doug Taylor said, “We are so grateful for the ongoing support of Officeworks, their generous customers and passionate team members, who have come together to support young Australians with their education.
“When young people start school without the essentials they need to keep up with their peers, they risk falling behind and disengaging from their learning. With this long term, wrap-around support, even more students will be able to stay engaged at school and make the most of their education.”
Officeworks managing director, Sarah Hunter added,“We’re incredibly thankful for the generosity and passion that our teams, customers and local communities have shown in getting behind this year’s Back to School Appeal. More families than ever need a helping hand and this year’s appeal fundraising will give 2,000 students the support they need to help make bigger things happen at school this year.
“We’re passionate about ensuring every child in Australia has the opportunity to have an education, no matter what their circumstances are. We’re proud that Officeworks’ long-term partnership with The Smith Family makes a real impact in students’ lives, helping to close the literacy, numeracy and social connection divide for young people in Australia.”