[embed]https://youtu.be/Zy50oftuoY4[/embed]The Buderim Foundation is pleased to announce for the 12th consecutive year, that Student Assistance Vouchers will be provided to local families to help with the cost of everyday essentials for students.
The Buderim Foundation coordinates the distribution of 300 $50 gift cards from Target and The School Locker, to families in need from the 4556 postcode. The vouchers assist with the purchase of shoes, clothing for growing students or stationary supplies that enhance their learning environment.
The Student Assistance Project is funded by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) $12,500, Buderim Rotary Club ($2000) and Buderim Lions Club ($500), and then distributed through the Buderim Foundation.
Buderim Foundation Chair, Professor Paul Clark said the Foundation really enjoys working with Buderim organisations to get the vouchers to help ensure the families and children in the greatest need obtain the most benefit from the program, whilst maintaining privacy for all involved.
“We are really excited to have watched this program grow and are proud that over the past four years we have doubled the voucher numbers from 150 in 2012 to 300 in 2016, allowing us to reach more families,” Prof. Clark said.
“We have also distributed vouchers to the value of $120,000 over the twelve years the program has been running.”
The vouchers will be distributed direct to families by several local schools including Buderim Mountain State School, Mountain Creek Primary School and Chancellor State College, as well as community organisations including St Vincent de Paul, SunnyKids, and Community Solutions.

Buderim Mountain State School Chaplain Dave Larkin said the vouchers were a great little surprise for the families, giving a little bit of extra money which anyone raising children could relate to.

“It helps financially but it also gives them a boost and makes them feel connected and supported,” Chappy Dave said.

Paul Clark said the Foundation had been overwhelmed by the feedback we have received in previous years. Families are surprised and delighted by the vouchers.

“It’s definitely a win/win situation.”

Written by Michelle Smytheman – Reflected Image PRoductions