Education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty
The three year partnership between Rabobank Ireland and Barnardos will fund Barnardos' work in using education to break the cycle of poverty for children in Ireland. Figures show that over 1,000 children drop out of school before the age of 14. A further 19% of children leave school without completing the Leaving Certificate.
With the Little Foot Forward Programme, Barnardos and Rabobank Ireland are working to change that. The Programme is a pre-school service for children primarily aged between two and five. These children are from disadvantaged communities, deemed at high risk of failing in the primary school system. The Little Foot Forward Programme will identify these children and work with them and their parents to ensure they are prepared for a smooth transition to primary school. The Programme will guide children through expertly designed curricula in a safe environment, providing positive opportunities for growth, development and learning.
The Programme has been implemented in a number of Barnardos' projects, including Ballyfermot, Blanchardstown, Loughlinstown, and Tullamore.
Frank Steenhuisen, Risk Director Rabobank Ireland, said: 'Rabobank is committed to CSR especially in these challenging financial times. While it's easy to give generously in the good times, it's in the tough times that we can demonstrate real commitment. That is why we are proud to support Barnardos in its work to combat the risk of children in disadvantaged areas dropping out of the education system at an early age. Early intervention is key to ensuring the effects of poverty don't contribute to a lifetime of alienation from society. As part of this Programme, Rabobank Ireland are also running a Volunteer Programme, whereby, staff of the group in Ireland have the opportunity to take two paid community leave days, one of which will be spent volunteering with Barnardos'
Fergus Finlay, CEO Barnardos, says of the partnership: 'Rabobank Ireland's partnership with the Little Foot Forward Programme is an incredibly generous commitment, all the more so at a time when funding for education has come under such pressure. With their support we are determined to help break cycles of poor educational attainment, now, and for further generations. A good education is crucial for enabling children reach their full potential both during childhood and into adulthood. It is a proven route out of poverty as it gives children the tools to create the future opportunities they deserve. We are delighted Rabobank Ireland share this view and are committed to making a real difference in children's lives.'
Pictured left to right Fergus Finlay, Chief Executive Barnardos, Frank Steenhuisen, Rabobank, Ella Rowe & Ryan Frame.
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