This Anti-Poverty Week, St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria invites Victorians, including those in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, to join an award-winning education program helping lift young lives.
Anti-Poverty Week runs from October 15 to 27, and this year is this calling to end child poverty.
St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria (SVDPV) is spotlighting education as a fundamental human right and a powerful way to transform lives.
SVDPV chief executive Dr Jennifer Fitzgerald AM said education is a right that every child deserves, not just a privilege.
“Our programs, recognised for their excellence, are instrumental in providing children with the skills and confidence needed to overcome the challenges associated with poverty,” she said.
“Our waiting lists are indicative of the pressing need for our services.
“We call upon individuals willing or able to make a difference to join us as volunteers, and we commit to providing the necessary training to ensure impactful contributions.”
The charity’s award-winning strengths-based, and trauma-informed free education programs have demonstrated over the past 15 years that education support is a powerful tool for positive growth and transformative change.
Trauma-informed principles ensure that children facing disadvantages and adversity receive social, emotional and academic support that considers and addresses the potential effects of trauma on their learning and wellbeing.
Empathy, sensitivity and a focus on creating a safe and supportive environment for healing and growth are delivered by highly trained staff and experienced volunteers.
SVDPV and its volunteer members are also actively involved in addressing the financial barriers to education.
In addition to education programs, volunteers provide essential support for education costs, ensuring that no child is left behind. This includes assistance with expenses such as laptops, school uniforms, excursions and necessary textbooks.
Dr Fitzgerald adds that poverty hurts us all, but together, we can make a difference.
“Let us unite to lift every child out of poverty and ensure that they have the opportunity to thrive, learn and break free from disadvantage,” she said.
