MEDIA RELEASE

Barnardos & ALDI: Helping to Enrichchildrens’ lives

We all know the importance of a healthy lifestyle for our physical and mental wellbeing. This is especially true for children, as a good diet, exercise and positive self-image can impact greatly on their school performance, both academically and socially.

As such we are proud to announce the launch of Barnardos Children’s Support Program (BCSP) Enrich.

BCSP Enrich aims to improve the nutrition, health, wellbeing and resilience of disadvantaged children and their communities across Australia. BCSP Enrich is designed to break down the barriers that can limit students’ ability to engage with their education, by supporting a range of school activities for children whose families cannot afford them, but which schools believe will provide real benefits to children who need it most.

BCSP Enrich is supported by ALDI who are committed to helping Australian children attain a good education and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Schools are encouraged to apply for practical support to encourage students to achieve their true potential.

We’re calling on school principals, teachers, counsellors and administrators to apply for practical resources to help with sporting activities, nutrition programs and healthy life skills courses to provide children with the boost they need to Enrich their lives.

Please consider how a grant may provide the most benefit for your students and be ready when applications open on 20 March 2016.

FAQs -ENRICH:

Who is eligible to apply?

With the principal’s approval, school staff can apply on behalf of an individual, group or class of students from primary schools and high schools with Index of Community & Socio-Educational Advantage (ICSEA) of 1,000 or below, as shown on the MySchool website The program supports children aged 4-18 years.

How do I apply?

Applications can be made online at

How much are the grants?

Maximum funding will be up to $5,000 per application

When do applications open?

Applications open on 20 March 2016

When do applications close?

Applications close on 20 May 2016

When will successful applications be announced?

Funding decisions will be announced 17 June 2016

What sort of items are covered in the grants?

•Material assistance - sports equipment, uniforms, shoes and transport

•Promoting inclusion in team or individual sporting, personal interest or community activities

•Assisting with healthy lifestyle education - sport, personal hygiene/care, wellbeing and resilience

•Improving nutrition through breakfast/lunch clubs and cooking classes

About Barnardos Australia

Barnardos Australia is one of the nation’s leading child protection charities. A non-government, non-denominational charity, we have been at the forefront of child protection for over 130 years. We believe all children deserve a safe and stable home. We work with families and communities facing issues such as violence, poverty, mental illness and homelessness to keep children safe at home. Barnardos extensive range of services include, family and domestic violence support, mental health support, accommodation, parent education, counselling, foster care and adoption. Our evidence-based research and dedicated workers and carers ensure Barnardos is well equipped to fully support, care for and nurture children in need. For more information or to donate go to:

About ALDI

ALDI’s first Australian store opened its doors in January 2001 with the philosophy that all people, wherever they live, should have the opportunity to buy everyday groceries of the highest quality at an affordable price. They have partnered with Barnardos since 2003, providing financial assistance and product donations which are invaluable to the families and children we help.

ALDI is committed to supporting disadvantaged children across Australia – building healthy, active and inclusive communities where children can thrive no matter what their background.

As one of Barnardos’ most important corporate partners, ALDI is delighted to see their partnership grow. Enrich provides the essential ingredients for health, nutrition and well-being to ensure school communities are safe and happy places where children feel they belong and have a better chance at life.