School Essentials Appeal helps Tasmanian children get necessary school supplies

The St Vincent de Paul Society’s annual School Essentials Appeal is in full swing, with children and families across the state benefitting from the campaign.

In its first three weeks, the Society has assisted over 140 Children and their families before the school year has begun. These numbers are expected to increase dramatically over the coming weeks as students settle into the school and additional commitments for the year to come become known.

Staff at St Therese’s Catholic School in Moonah have noticed the growing demand for support and Principal Fran Baccarin said that initiatives like the School Essentials Appeal are important for struggling families.

“The cost of living crisis has affected each and every one of our families in one way or another and we have seen an increase in families who need support,” Ms Baccarin said.

“It’s reflected in families who don’t have access to things they had before, as they are prioritising putting food on the table and paying the basic bills, and it makes it tight for everything else.

“The Society’s appeals are always a really valuable support for families. Back to school costs are phenomenal, by the time you start thinking about school books, uniforms, lunches and snacks, it really adds up.”

The rising cost of school essentials can cause a massive financial strain on Tasmanian families that are already struggling, and many parents are forced to choose to delay rent payments or skip meals to pay for their children’s school supplies.

The School Essentials Appeal helps struggling families get their children the school supplies they require to thrive at school.

St Vincent de Paul State President Corey McGrath has seen first-hand the effects the cost of living has had on Tasmanian families and knows that the support from local schools is critical at this time of year with school going back.

“Last year’s School Essentials Appeal played a crucial role in supporting the Society’s work across Tasmania for families with school age children,” he said.

“Not being able to afford these items is a stress on parents and carers and adds to the anxiety of starting school for young people.

“All up, 3,249 Tasmanians sought our help in January and February last year as we assisted families with school supplies and provided food and vouchers to help take some financial strain off the household budget.”

Vinnies are still seeking donations to the appeal and are encouraging Tasmanians to donate to help children thrive in school.

To learn more or donate, follow the link below: https://donate.vinnies.org.au/appeals-tas/school-essentials-appeal-tas