Funds raised through this appeal will go towards providing these students with the essentials to learn, such as stationery packs, uniforms and the cost of extra‐curricular activities and excursions which they would normally go without.

As a champion of anti-bullying, funds raised will also assist with the installation of buddy benches in school across North Queensland to encourage students to, ‘be a buddy, not a bully’.

Joyful Foundation founder Ron Donnellan said the organisation works closely with some 80 schools throughout North Queensland to reach students most in need.

“We empower students that for no reason of their own, have it tough,” Ron said.

The retired teacher was inspired to establish the organisation following the death of his daughter the late Joy Donnellan in 2011, who was also a teacher.

“It’s incredible to see just how far we’ve come over the last six years and the number of lives we’ve impacted. We couldn’t have done this without the support of the community,” he said.

“This past year alone, we’ve delivered 650 stationery packs to schools as far west as Julia Creek, Cloncurry and Mount Isa.”

“We have also been able to answer calls for help to support anti‐bullying campaigns in 12 schools in North Queensland by installing buddy benches, encouraging students to be buddies and not bullies.”

The organisation which has always been run completely by volunteers knows that there is more to be done.

“When you speak to the teachers and principals in these school you realise just how tough it is for families in the region – students are missing out,” Ron said.

“We encourage North Queenslanders to please get behind the Joyful Foundation’s Appeal and create JOY this June, to help us continue our important work in the North Queensland community.”

“Your tax-deductible donation, big or small, will help us to continue Joy’s legacy and forge a brighter future of the region’s children,” Ron said.

Donations can be made via the Joyful Foundation Facebook page. Donations over $2 are tax deductible.