We believe every young person should have the opportunity to learn and thrive, but it’s a sad reality that thousands of Victorian children living in poverty don’t have that opportunity.

By the time parents have purchased uniforms, books, stationery, digital devices and school fees, there is little left over for the family to survive on. To thrive, students need time, patience and consistency. Vinnies does this by providing:

• Learning programs that support children and young people to develop social, emotional and academic skills and confidence.
• 1:1 student-directed support focusing on developing the four pillars of literacy – reading, writing, speaking and listening.
• School essentials, such as uniforms and shoes and items such as books, stationery and digital devices that are standard inclusions on many book lists in Victoria.

Finally, no young mind can learn without good nutrition and Vinnies also provides food to hungry families every day.

Students such as Minara, who previously participated in our education program in Dandenong, are given the opportunity to thrive.

Today Minara is attending university to study commerce:

“I improved so much with the help of the Vinnies program. Especially my English and grammar. I found it much easier to do my homework and assessments, and the tutors also helped me improve my confidence. Vinnies tutors told me to never give up and with their help, I completed my dream of going to university. I am very grateful that I got this opportunity.”

Minara, university student, aged 23