Children's education charity The Smith Family is urging Territorians to support families doing it tough over the Christmas period.
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"Christmas is a very special time for many families, but for some it can be a difficult reminder that they're struggling more than others," The Smith Family's CEO, Dr Lisa O'Brien said.
"Right now, there are 1.1 million young Australians struggling daily with the effects of financial hardship brought on by a range of circumstances including accidents, illness or unemployment within the family.
"Our research shows such difficulties can take a tremendous toll on children's educational outcomes."
The Smith Family is launching its annual Christmas Appeal at a critical time in the year many people struggle through.
The appeal provides thousands of children living in disadvantage with wrap-around educational support and mentoring programs to break the cycle of disadvantage.
The Smith Family aims to raise $4.3 million nationally, and in the NT the organisation has an aim of just $7,000.
So this Christmas, the best gift you can give is to change the course of a child's life by helping us to support them
- Graham Jaeschke, South Australia and the Northern Territory General Manager at The Smith Family.
"More than half of students supported by The Smith Family have a parent or carer who didn't complete year 12," Dr O'Brien said.
"This can pose a big obstacle in being able to help children with their homework."
"The parents of these students are doing their absolute best to get their children educated, but they often have the odds stacked against them.
"Challenges include an inability to provide resources for their child's education, limited access to digital technology and skills, and a lack of knowledge or confidence about how best to support their child's educational development."
She said the organisation's learning support for disadvantaged children has ensured many students make it through school and increases the chances of young people going on to further study, training and work.
"Completing school gives young people the best chance of experiencing a better future and breaking the cycle of poverty," she said.
Australians can help this Christmas by:
Making a donation to help a child keep up at school through our reading and mentoring programs and after-school Learning Clubs.
Sponsoring a child to help them with their education over the long term, or,
Volunteering your time, skills and energy to support The Smith Family's work.
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