FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Almost half of Australian adults don't have the literacy skills they need for everyday life - and in very remote communities, only 36%* of First Nations students meet minimum literacy standards. That's why Officeworks is once again partnering with the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation for the Officeworks Literacy is Freedom Appeal this September, helping fund life-changing literacy programs that give every child the chance to read, learn, and succeed particularly in remote and Indigenous communities.
These figures highlight the urgent need to ensure every child, no matter their background, has access to quality literacy support from the earliest years. In support of education, Officeworks partners with ALNF to break down barriers to learning and give all children the chance to thrive. Through the Appeal, Officeworks helps fund ALNF's programs in schools, early learning centres and communities across Australia, equipping educators and families with the tools and training they need to build strong literacy and language foundations where they're needed most.
Since 2020, Officeworks' total community contributions have raised over $35.8 million, empowering more than 84,000 students to unlock their potential through the power of education, just like the children at Gillen Primary School. Whether it's meaningful contributions in local communities, or national appeals like Back to School, Make a Difference and Literacy is Freedom, each campaign has reinforced Officeworks' commitment to creating better educational outcomes for children right across Australia.
Officeworks Head of Corporate Affairs, Fiona Lawrie, said: “At Officeworks we're proud to support the incredible work of ALNF in delivering targeted, culturally relevant literacy programs that help break the cycle of disadvantage and empower children to reach their full potential. Together with the generosity of our customers and local communities, we are excited to help support students who need it most, enhancing equal access to education for all.”
ALNF Co-Founder and CEO Kim Kelly said: “The Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation is dedicated to raising language, literacy and numeracy standards in Australia for our most marginalised communities. The Officeworks Literacy is Freedom Appeal helps Indigenous students to write their own bright future and the funds raised empower ALNF to continue our important work, inspiring the next generation of changemakers.”
The Officeworks Literacy is Freedom Appeal forms part of Officeworks' People and Planet Positive commitments, which focuses on creating meaningful community impact by supporting education nationwide. To find out more about the Appeal or make a donation, visit the Officeworks website or pop into your local Officeworks store - remember, a small donation together can make a big impact.
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