Wyndham mother Leanne Pelen says that saving up for her daughter’s back-to-school costs has been easier this year, thanks to a financial education program.
The Saver Plus initiative, which is delivered in the Werribee area by The Smith Family, was developed by the Brotherhood of St Laurence and ANZ.
Under the program, participants who make regular bank deposits across a 10-month period are awarded up to $500 in matched savings by ANZ.
Parents are required to use the $500 on items for their children’s education, such as laptops, uniforms, shoes, backpacks and stationery.
Saver Plus participants also take part in four financial education workshops.
During 2020, 110 people from Werribee and surrounds joined Saver Plus.
Local mother-of-two Leanne Pelen said that before participating in Saver Plus, she struggled to find the money needed to pay for her children’s school expenses.
“When my son went to high school a few years ago, I found that I was under-prepared financially, I didn’t realise how much it would cost and it was a real struggle,” Ms Pelen said.
“With my daughter going into year 7 this year, I wanted things to be different.
“With the money from Saver Plus, I was able to buy her uniform weeks before she started school, as well as buy her a laptop. The program was a huge help.”
Schools in Wyndham have praised the positive impact Saver Plus is having on families.
Westgrove Primary School assistant principal Kerrie Slaymaker said: “After a tough school year due to the pandemic, we’re amazed at the resilience of our parent community and those who have taken the initiative to enrol in programs like Saver Plus.
“It’s been wonderful to see these students benefit from the matched savings and start the school year with a renewed sense of hope.”
To be eligible for Saver Plus, you must have a Health Care or Pensioner Concession Card and receive an eligible Commonwealth social security benefit, allowance or payment.
You must also be aged at least 18 years old or over and have a child at school, or attend vocational education yourself, and have regular income from your or your partner’s paid employment.
Inquiries: www.saverplus.org.au, 1300 610 355.
