School chaplains across Queensland are already enjoying the benefit of partnering with online charity GIVIT to help meet the needs of children and families in need.
But now, your chaplaincy service has the opportunity to take this partnership to the next level. GIVIT is now aiming to nurture a future generation of philanthropists by making the process of giving a natural part of children’s lives.
GIVIT Schools is a new program harnessing the generosity of students who can give and connecting them, through GIVIT’s safe donation portal, with disadvantaged students and other vulnerable members of the community.
The program at givit.org.au/schools will launch initially in Queensland schools, both private and state, with the aim of spreading nationally.
GIVIT Founder and Director Juliette Wright said she was excited to launch GIVIT Schools and looked forward to the changes it would make in children’s lives – both for the givers and receivers.
“Right now, 731,000 Australian children under the age of 15 are living in poverty,’’1 Mrs Wright said.
“Those children need material items to help improve their situation – to grow and thrive and strive.
“We are launching a way for schools with big hearts to give. It might be for another school who needs items such as sporting and music equipment, or simple items like school hats; a remote indigenous school establishing a footy team; or a fridge for a family recovering after a natural disaster.’’
Initially GIVIT Schools will target rural, remote and regional Queensland and Western Australia. The program will focus on providing mass items but will also include one-off donations for specific needs.
“Through this project, schools will have a platform to direct the generosity of their students to exactly where it is needed the most,” Mrs Wright said.
“It’s my goal to make giving a natural part of a child’s life and spark a giving impulse. It feels good to make a difference in the life of someone else. I always say that giving is addictive.
“The benefits of generosity are known. It feels good to know you’ve made a difference in the life of someone else. Not only does it foster a sense of community but the action of giving builds a sense of confidence and connectivity to others.’’
Your school chaplains are already doing an amazing job of meeting the needs of your school community. This is a great opportunity to help them do even more. To get the ball rolling, go to GIVIT Schools at givit.org.au/schools.
One hundred per cent of funds received by GIVIT will be used to purchase essential items from local retailers.
To get involved in GIVIT Schools:
1: Go to givit.org.au/schools
2: If you are a school needing help – you can request support
3: If you are a school wanting to give – find a project that best suits your school community.