Giving girls the greatest gift

While the Trump administration’s war on foreign aid has sent shockwaves around the world, Sydney-based Good Neighbours Australia (GNAU) will this month roll out its Better Life for Girls program.

Focused on education and economic empowerment, the program covers a range of initiatives, including:

• tertiary scholarships for girls from marginalised communities
  

• the provision of 3,000 washable dignity kits along with improved school sanitation facilities for girls to use during their menstrual cycle
  

• the distribution of 3,000 blankets and 3,000 personal solar lights to support students with limited access to electricity, so they can complete their homework
  

• vocational hairdresser training for 30 marginalised girls, to improve their long-term work prospects. 

GNAU executive director Sylvia Lee said the initiatives would improve the lives of thousands of Filipina girls.

“Through our Better Life for Girls program, we see a world where girls have greater access to education, are treated with dignity and respect, and are supported on their path to long-term socio-economic well-being,” said Lee.

“Ultimately, our Better Life for Girls program aims to equip girls with the tools and skills they need, develop their confidence and self-esteem, and make the most of their education, so they can unlock their full potential.”