Jesuit Mission Australia invites all to give the gift of kindness, spread love, and empower vulnerable people to break themselves out of the cycle of poverty this Christmas season through Gifts for Change.
A Gift for Change allows one to replace a traditional present with the gift of nourishment, independence, education, and empowerment to directly support vulnerable people around the world. A $50 gift could fund a bicycle to help a young child in Cambodia receive a quality education.
In Cambodia, poverty and extremely poor access to education mean just one in four young people finish school. Many children do not have the opportunity to study beyond the primary school level.
“Together we can help these children this Christmas by gifting them a pathway out of poverty and access to a brighter future. A bicycle literally helps a child gain access to education – from peddles to possibilities,” said Helen Forde, CEO of Jesuit Mission.
Armed with education, these impressive young men and women go on to use their education to empower their own families and communities and contribute to the new future of Cambodian society.
Currently, 90 percent of Cambodians who live in poverty come from rural areas. While these families value education, the burden of poverty and vastly inadequate education infrastructure – the result of decades of war and conflict – means there are many barriers to sending their children to school.
The Jesuits are standing in solidarity, sparking hope in the lives of these families, and empowering them to break the cycle of poverty.
With a range of Gifts for Change available, individuals can help give a child access to a quality education, provide medical kits for people fleeing conflict in Myanmar, or help start a chicken farm.
A Gift for Change can be personalised, and one can choose to receive a physical card or e-card to share with their loved one this Christmas.
Gifts for Change can be purchased online at jesuitmission.org.au/Christmas. Every gift will not only receive a tax-deductible receipt but will also help transform the lives of others. [Zach Martorana/Jesuit Mission Australia]