8 March 2005

Australian Red Cross is asking all Australians to reflect on the work the world’s largest humanitarian organisation is doing right here, in our own back yard.

‘While the work of Australian Red Cross at international disasters is well recognised and supported, we want people to know about the important contribution Red Cross makes to the lives of thousands of vulnerable Australians each and every day’, Kerry Symons, Acting Executive Director, South Australia said.

Australian Red Cross is urging all people across South Australia to donate to the Red Cross Calling appeal this March and help raise the $8m needed to ensure the continued delivery of more than 60 domestic programs to thousands of vulnerable people.

The Good Start Breakfast Club is a community program run by Australian Red Cross, South Australia in partnership with Sanitarium Health Food Company. Volunteers serve a nutritious breakfast of cereal, toast, juice and fruit to primary schoolchildren who may otherwise go hungry. The program also provides education on healthy nutrition and eating practices for children and parents.

‘Many health and nutrition studies have linked the onset of childhood obesity, concentration problems and learning difficulties to young people skipping breakfast’, said Ms Symons.

Adelaide resident, mum and Breakfast Club volunteer Amanda Chow said it has been a really rewarding experience.

‘It’s such a worthwhile program and it makes such a difference to the children. I really feel great every time I come away from it. It has been wonderful to be able to make a difference straight away. I only wish we could help out in more schools’.

A donation to Red Cross of $60 provides a healthy nutritious breakfast to 30 disadvantaged school children for a full school week or approximately 40 cents per child, per day, or $2.00 per child, per school week.

Ms Symons said people can continue the work of the Good Start Breakfast Club and other vital South Australian community service programs by donating to Red Cross Calling online at www.redcross.org.au or by calling 1 800 811 700.

AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW:

Kerry Symons, Acting Executive Director, South Australia, 0438 820 096