More children arriving at school without the basics

The school’s principal says while many families are working hard, rising living costs are pushing more households beyond their limits. 

“There are pockets of our community having to decide: do I buy groceries, fill the car, or take my child to the doctor? The money will only stretch so far.” 

For some children, poverty is not always immediately visible, but it is deeply felt through cold homes, food insecurity, and missed opportunities. 

“Many of our students are living in substandard housing with little or no heating. That means constant sickness and kids that are always cold.” 

Teachers are increasingly stepping in to fill urgent gaps, providing food throughout the day when children arrive without enough to eat. 

“In the last year, and especially this term, we’ve noticed more and more KidsCan food supplies being handed out during morning tea because students simply don’t have anything.” 

Staff say more families who may once have been managing are now struggling under rising petrol, grocery and housing costs. 

“A common phrase in our community is that if you can afford both petrol and groceries, then you are rich.” 

Beyond food, schools are also seeing growing need for essentials like shoes, school uniforms, hygiene products and basic daily necessities. 

“Kids are being clothed, fed, and supported by school in ways we haven’t seen to this extent before,” the principal says. 

“These are proud families. They often won’t ask for help, even when they are really struggling. 

“These families are doing their best.”