The Smith Family, which supports about 550 Ballarat students from 300 families, is falling millions of dollars short of its mid-year appeal target.
With less than a month until the end of the appeal, Australians have donated $1.2 million, significantly short of the not-for-profit's $4.5 million target.
A Smith Family spokeswoman said the organisation had a strong presence in Ballarat, supporting 541 students in the Learning for Life programs.
The programs provide financially disadvantaged students with support through scholarships to assist with education expenses. They also offer students a network of personal development opportunities including access to arts and sporting programs and personal support including monitoring, tutoring and learning clubs.
The Smith Family Learning for Life worker Joan Kennedy said the learning clubs provided students help with any difficulties they were having at school. A Sebastopol Secondary College student who only wanted to be known as Jess, said the program helped her understand her school work.
"I can come here and ask and they (tutors) explain it in another way," Jess said.
The Smith Family acting chief executive officer Paul Henderson encouraged people to spare a thought for low-income families and donate to the appeal, despite it being a tough year for everyone. To make a donation call 1800 326 459 or visit www.thesmithfamily.com.au
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