As the cost of living rises, stretching a pay cheque has become an even bigger challenge for many families, especially at the start of the school year.
Now in its 19th year, the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal Back to School program aims to address that challenge.
The national program is designed to help rural and remote children and young people access quality educational experiences.
As a Back to School partner since the program began in 2005, Tomorrow Today distributes $50 vouchers to schools every year.
The schools then give the vouchers to students to help purchase items such as uniforms, shoes, stationery and school bags.
This year, Tomorrow Today secured 710, $50 vouchers, totalling $35,500 of which $7000 was contributed by Tomorrow Today.
The vouchers were distributed to 10 schools in Benalla and district.
Lou McCloskey, one of five wellbeing workers at Benalla P-12 College, sees first-hand the positive impact the vouchers have within the school community.
“The FRRR Back to School vouchers support us to ensure all students from all four campuses have access to a uniform that is in great condition and fits well,” Ms McCloskey said.
“Many students continue to wear old uniforms that don’t fit them anymore, so when a voucher provides a new top, for example, the student just lights up with a smile.
“Wearing a uniform helps promote pride and inclusion in our students and the vouchers make a massive contribution to that.
“We are extremely grateful to Tomorrow Today for sourcing vouchers for the college.”
FCJ College Wellbeing director Renae Hughes is equally appreciative of the support the vouchers provide.
“The back to school vouchers are really fantastic,” Ms Hughes said.
“They have helped many FCJ students over a number of years.
“One of the great things about the vouchers is that they are discrete, and we can use them throughout the year when we know families or individual students really need them.
“For example (in a situation where) a parent looses work or falls ill and money is tight, or there is an unforeseen situation like a flood or accident that puts financial pressure on them.
“The students also know they are available and can approach us when they need that little bit of assistance. We’re very grateful the program exists.”
Tomorrow Today executive officer Rosie Koop said it was a priviledge to partner with FRRR to deliver this important program.
“It is just one of the ways we support local children and young people to feel comfortable at school and ready to learn,” Ms Koop said.
For more information about Tomorrow Today, phone 5762 1211 or visit: www.tomorrowtoday.com.au