16 Jan Breaking the cycle of poverty through education
Officeworks’ 2025 Back to School Appeal is set to make a significant impact by raising funds to support thousands of Australian students in need, ensuring they have the essential resources to thrive in their education through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program.
As the new school year draws near, Officeworks has launched its 2025 Back to School Appeal, aiming to raise vital funds to support thousands of Australian students in need through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. Over the 12-year partnership, the Appeal has transformed the lives of over 60,000 students impacted by poverty and raised more than $9 million for The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, thanks to the generosity of Officeworks customers and team members.
Empowering Education: How Officeworks and The Smith Family are Supporting Students in Need
Australian families are increasingly seeking support to navigate the financial pressures of the upcoming school year. Officeworks is calling on the community to help support students in need by donating to this year’s appeal in-store or online from 27 December until 9 February.
All funds raised go directly to the Learning for Life program, empowering families affected by poverty to afford their child’s essential school supplies. The program also provides personal support and access to additional educational initiatives, keeping students motivated, engaged, and connected to their learning journey.
13-year-old Brooklyn and her mum Breeanne are one family supported on the Learning for Life program and say The Smith Family has eased financial stress and opened news doors for them through the additional learning programs and personal support.
Brooklyn’s mother, Breeanne shared, “Before we started receiving The Smith Family funding, life was tough. I was trying to work out what was more important. Do I put petrol in the car, or do I get food? It’s really hard to prioritise – everything’s important when you’ve got little kids.”
Brooklyn said, “My first year at high school has been really good. One of the things I’m most proud of myself for is I’m a good learner, and I love learning. Having the things that I need to be able to learn is important for my future.”
“I think The Smith Family has taken a lot of stress off my mum and stepdad. It helps us get school uniforms and school shoes, which really helps, and it helps us pay for camp and excursions. I’m going to camp soon, and if I didn’t get to go, I think I would feel really left out.”
The Smith Family Learning for Life program
“Our enduring partnership with Officeworks and the Back to School Appeal has created opportunities for thousands of young people experiencing disadvantage. Our focus is on helping students to make the most of their education, by providing them with the essentials they need to start the school year, and tailored learning and mentoring support so they can keep up with their peers and stay engaged with their education,” said Doug Taylor, The Smith Family’s CEO,
“Like The Smith Family, Officeworks shares a vision of a world where every child has the chance to create a brighter future for themselves, and break the cycle of poverty, through the power of education.”
“We believe that every child should have equal access to a quality education, and we’re committed to promoting strong educational outcomes for all Australian students. We’re proud of how Officeworks’ long-term partnership with The Smith Family helps us to make a real impact in students’ lives, helping to close the literacy, numeracy and social connection divide for so many young people in Australia.” said Sarah Hunter Officeworks Director.
The community can donate to the Back to School Appeal in all Officeworks stores or online and help raise vital funds to support children overcome educational inequality caused by poverty by donating.
Join the Cause:
See ways to contribute to the 2025 here Back to School Appeal
