A leading family-owned childcare provider is helping strengthen community support networks through the rollout of its Family Pantry initiative, helping families struggling with the cost of living.
Little Zak’s Academy has 30 centres participating in the Family Pantry program, which distributes non-perishable food and essential household items to families within the centres as grocery bills strain household finances.
“Family Pantry is about coming together to support those who need a helping hand and in this tough economic climate an increasing number of parents are reaching out for help,” says Centre Director at Little Zak’s Academy, Kate Green.
“Parents who need support are encouraged to help themselves to pasta, tinned food, essential toiletries and our chefs even make family dinners to take home that day.”
“We believe children learn best through example so when they see kindness and generosity in action, it helps shape their understanding of empathy and community,” said Ms Green.
“Our centres have really come together on this with our educators facilitating the collection points while families are actively engaging in conversations with their children about why we give to others and how important it is to help those in need.”
The pantries are in an easily accessible of participating centres, but provide privacy for in-need families.
The Family Pantry initiative was initiated in response to the rising cost of living by Maged and Carlos Zaki, the owners of Little Zak’s Academy, as part of the organisation’s broader commitment to family wellbeing and community connection across its network of early learning centres.
About Little Zak’s Academy
Little Zak’s Academy is a family-run childcare provider, established in 1993, with approximately 45 centres across Australia. The organisation delivers an enriched early learning environment with a strong focus on child wellbeing, development, and family support.
