General News
8 November, 2025
School made easier for kids
FOR a decade, Centacare FNQ’s School Savvy program has been helping Far North Queensland children head back to school with confidence, providing uniforms, stationery and even free haircuts for families in need.
Launched under the theme ‘Our Village, Their Future’, the 2026 campaign marks 10 years of community-driven support, with pop-up shops now spanning Tully to Mossman and new locations in Mareeba and Tully.
Executive director Anita Veivers said the program’s reach had grown dramatically in recent years.
“We’ve gone from helping around 1000 children five years ago to more than 2700 last year, that’s a significant jump,” Ms Veivers said.
This year a new family engagement team, funded by the Queensland Government, will work directly with families and schools to help remove barriers to education.
“It’s about providing wraparound support, not just resources,” Ms Veivers said. “Many families also need help connecting with schools or accessing support services and this team allows us to do that.”
The program has supported over 14,000 students and 6700 families since its inception, including delivering hundreds of free haircuts and hosting 25 pop-up shops across the region. Each child’s support pack is worth roughly $150, covering uniforms, shoes, calculators, stationery and haircuts.
Local police are also part of the “village”, helping kids stay in school. Sergeant Kelly Chamberlain from PCYC Cairns said “a lack of uniform or support can be one of the reasons some kids disengage. By working together, we’re giving young people positive opportunities to stay connected, engaged, and confident.”
Former St Mary’s Catholic College school principal Wayne Wood praised the program for giving students dignity and equality.
“It alleviates pressures from home so kids can focus on enjoying school, making friends, and feeling welcomed,” he said.
“Inclusivity is key; it’s about making sure children belong, no matter their circumstances.”
Ms Veivers said donations of funds, time and items, including pencil cases, school bags, and uniforms, were welcome at Vinnies stores, participating schools, or Centacare FNQ.
“It really does take a village,” she said. “Every donation helps give kids the start they deserve. I’ll never forget a little girl who left our pop-up with a fresh haircut, a new uniform and a big smile. You could see her confidence lift instantly.”
School Savvy’s 10-year milestone is a reminder that community support, generosity and collaboration can make all the difference for children and families across FNQ.
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