Since 2005, Border Trust has supported students in-need at the start of the new school year through the annual FRRR Back to School program with the launch of the matched funding challenge kick-starting the 2023 campaign.

The program provides $50 vouchers to students experiencing disadvantage to help meet the ever-increasing costs associated with a successful return to the classroom.  “This program is a mainstay of Border Trust’s.  We believe implicitly in the importance of every child feeling confident that they fit in and don’t stand out amongst their peers.  We’ve been the local mechanism for this national program for 17 years with vouchers valued at $564,600 making their way directly to those who need a helping hand.  872 regional students benefitted in 2022 alone which goes some way to demonstrating the need that exists”, said Glenys Atkins, Border Trust’s Executive Officer.

For the second year running, the FRRR Back to School Program is proudly supported locally by Hume Bank. Chief Executive Officer of Hume Bank, Stephen Capello said that: “Hume Bank is proud to once again be the major local sponsor of the Back-to-School program. The $50 vouchers provided to families will enable them to purchase a pair of shoes, backpack or stationery for the school year. Education is the foundation of every child’s future, and we want to make it accessible to all families We encourage local businesses and the broader community to help support this fantastic program.”

A fundraising target of $10,000 during October and November has been set.  This will be matched by FRRR or used to purchase additional vouchers.  Businesses, families and individuals are encouraged to get behind the challenge with all funds raised supporting local students and families. Donations are tax deductible and can be made here

Fast Facts:

Our region: Albury, Wodonga, Greater Hume, Federation, Towong and Indigo LGA’s

Number of Schools: 113

Vouchers Distributed: 11,292