With less than two weeks until Christmas, The Smith Family is encouraging people to consider giving the gift of education by donating to its Christmas Appeal, to help change the life of a child in need.

“The countdown to Christmas is well and truly on, but for many Australian children the festive season marks the end of another year where they’ve struggled to keep up with their education, due to the impacts of poverty,” says The Smith Family’s CEO Doug Taylor.

“For children in this situation, we know that effort doesn’t always equal reward.”

“Many families are continuing to struggle with the rising cost-of-living, and this is impacting their children’s ability to do well in school, despite trying their hardest.”

The Smith Family is hoping to raise a total of $4.91 million to provide more children in need with its tailored out-of-school learning and mentoring programs. With less than a month left to donate, there are still 4,532 students in need of support.

“Everyone is feeling the effects of the cost-of-living crisis, but it is not felt equally. Today in Australia, one in six children are growing up in poverty, limiting their ability to make the most of their education,” Taylor says.

“As this is the season for giving, we encourage all those who can, to give generously.”

To donate to The Smith Family’s Christmas Appeal, visit the website