Over the past year, the Youth Education Fund received thousands of requests – for everything from glasses to beds, bicycles to school meals. And behind every request is a child, a family, a story. For example, the glasses pilot conducted by the Youth Education Fund showed that as many as one in three children needs glasses, but either does not have them or wears the wrong prescription. Increasingly concerning signals also came in through bridge officers: children who were forced to live in cars or garages. Together with Nieuwsuur, the Youth Education Fund collected these distressing stories.
Through the Youth Education Fund, the School Meals Programme reached more than 340,000 pupils at over 1,600 schools this school year. This support went beyond simply filling hungry stomachs: it brought calm to the classroom and strengthened parental involvement, as our recent research showed.
This year, the Youth Education Fund also marked a milestone: its tenth anniversary. Not a reason to celebrate, but an opportunity for reflection and a powerful conversation. With ‘The Report Card of the Netherlands’ , the Youth Education Fund held up a mirror to society. The conclusion was painfully clear: we still fail to provide equal opportunities for development. During the Netherlands’ Largest 10-Minute Conversation , schools shared moving stories and inspiring guests spoke out. The Youth Education Fund called on politicians and society to take action.
All of this underlines one thing: the Youth Education Fund’s efforts remain desperately needed. And the difference the Youth Education Fund makes is greater than ever.
Will you help give the new school year a good start?
The new school year begins in a few weeks. School supplies are essential for getting the year off to a good start. A bicycle costing € 350, a school bag costing € 25 and gym clothes costing € 45: these expenses may seem self-evident. But for families living in poverty, they represent a major financial burden. Every contribution makes a difference and ensures that children living in poverty can start the school year with confidence. Click here to help. |