MORE than 500 Limestone Coast students have started the 2026 school year with greater confidence and dignity, thanks to the Stand Like Stone Foundation\u2019s Back to School program, delivered entirely through local community support.<\/p>\n
This term, 530 Back to School vouchers, valued at $26,500, were distributed to 34 public primary and area schools across the region, helping families meet the cost of essential school items, including uniforms, shoes, school bags and stationery.<\/p>\n
Stand Like Stone Foundation Chair Georgie McKay said the program was one of the foundation\u2019s impactful initiatives supporting families across the region.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe know from years of experience the Back to School program has a powerful impact well beyond the value of the voucher,\u201d Ms McKay said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt helps children arrive at school feeling prepared, included and equal to their peers \u2013 and that sense of dignity and belonging matters enormously for learning, confidence and wellbeing.\u201d<\/p>\n
The 2026 program reached schools across Mount Gambier, Wattle Range, Naracoorte Lucindale, Tatiara, Kingston, Robe and the District Council of Grant, with allocations guided by school card data to ensure support reached families experiencing the greatest financial pressure.<\/p>\n
Stand Like Stone Chief Executive Officer Jason Wallace said the program\u2019s continued strength reflected the generosity and commitment of the Limestone Coast community.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat makes the Back to School program so special is that it is now delivered solely through local donations,\u201d Mr Wallace said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn earlier years the program was supported in partnership with the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, but in 2026 every voucher has been made possible by people and businesses in our own region stepping up to support local children through local philanthropy.\u201d<\/p>\n
Community contributions for the 2026 program totalled more than $26,000, with support coming from individuals, families, community groups and local businesses, including OGR Mount Gambier, Good Country Community Op Shop, Noel Barr Toyota, Mac\u2019s Hotel, Group Training Employment and Tatiara Multicultural Group, alongside many others.<\/p>\n
Since the program began in 2005, Stand Like Stone\u2019s Back to School initiative has distributed more than $685,000 in vouchers to Limestone Coast families, helping thousands of children start each school year equipped for learning and participation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
MORE than 500 Limestone Coast students have started the 2026 school year with greater confidence and dignity, thanks to the Stand Like Stone Foundation\u2019s Back to School program, delivered entirely through local community support. This term, 530 Back to School vouchers, valued at $26,500, were distributed to 34 public primary and area schools across the […]<\/p>\n