Bop Bop kids raise $500 for the farmers

CHILDREN at the Barwon Heads Bop Bop Karrong centre have raised $500 for farmers dealing with the affects of drought.

The children donned their best plaid shirts and cowboy hats last week as part of the “Fiver for a Farmer” campaign.

The campaign, started by a 10-year-old NSW boy who learnt only recently about the drought, aims to raise $200,000 for charities Drought Angels and Rural Aid.

Children dressed up as a farmer for the day at their school, kindergarten or care centre and donated $5 to help farmers suffering due to the intense drought conditions in NSW.

All week the children at the Bop Bop Karrong centre have been learning about different kinds of farms, what drought means and how climate impacts on farmers.

City of Greater Geelong mayor Bruce Harwood said the Fiver for a Farmer campaign was a great way to teach young children that they could make a difference in the lives of others who may be struggling.

“The campaign presents an opportunity for our educators to teach kids about the impacts of drought on our country and the affect it has on the lives of our farmers and their families,” Mr Harwood said.

“Presenting them with the option to dress up and donate five dollars to drought charities frames a lesson about difficult circumstances in a way that is hopeful and encourages children to be active community members.

“It’s really important that we raise awareness about the harsh conditions faced by farmers, be it drought, floods or bushfires. I urge everyone to spare our farmers a thought the next time you sit down for dinner, as we’re the benefactors of this great farming land and we need to support our farmers through this difficult time.

“Congratulations to the staff and families at Bop Bop Karrong for getting involved in this fantastic fundraising campaign.”