The Smith Family

Not all children get an equal start in life.

Today, one in 10 Australian children are living in financial disadvantage1. These children often experience far fewer opportunities than other children, affecting their emotional and social development, as well as their education.

Research shows children and young people living in disadvantage have access to fewer books and learning materials in the home. Access to support and resources forms the foundation for learning. In many cases, the parents of disadvantaged children may not have the skills or experience to support their child’s education. As these children get older, they have fewer role models, and access to mentors and networks that are critical for creating educational opportunities to help them build their aspirations and be motivated to learn.

Education has the power to change lives and break the cycle of disadvantage.

By leaving a legacy to The Smith Family, you are ensuring that disadvantaged Australian children have access to the tools and support they need to make the most of their education and break the cycle of disadvantage.

Our work focuses on Australian children in families and communities where we know it’s harder for them to fully participate in their education without some help.

Our Learning for Life program provides emotional, practical and financial support to help disadvantaged children and young people with their education. Our support starts in the early years of learning development and continues through primary and high school. Our programs help build skills, knowledge, motivation, self-belief and a network of positive relationships with parents, peers and significant others. This support increases a young person’s likelihood of remaining engaged with school, completing Year 12 and developing realistic and informed study and career pathways for life beyond the school gate.

Your support can help give Australian children in need the chance to create a better future.

1 Australian Bureau of Statistics 2013. Labour force status and other characteristics of families, June 2012).

Click here to learn more about leaving a gift in your Will to The Smith Family