Literacy Angels read for Foster Children

Tuesday, 3 February 2009 at 11:34 am

It was my recent pleasure to conduct a session for a new group of Pyjama Angels, a group of individuals volunteering time on a weekly basis to read to children in foster care.

With only eight per cent of foster children achieving average literacy levels by the age of seven and only 25 per cent graduating high school, foster children are among our most vulnerable students.

The Pyjama Foundation is the creation of Bronwyn Sheehan, recently awarded Queenslander of the Year. After lots of hard work and dedication, there are now 500 Angels spending 2 hours each week reading, playing and talking to foster children of all ages.

Each time I present to the Angels I meet a new group of enthusiastic men and women eager to share their time, energy and passion for learning and life with their assigned child. I am approached at every session to discuss the needs of individual children, gather tips for helping with school and homework and to find additional ways to provide assistance and support.

It is always my privilege to meet with the Angels and I look forward to my next session in June. For more information visit the Pyjama Foundation’s web site.

by Angela Ehmer

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