RAS Foundation Charity Brunch

Building Brighter Futures with Early Literacy This year’s CHARITY BRUNCH WILL SUPPORT CHILDREN ACROSS BREWARRINA, Coonamble, Gilgandra, and Walgett build brighter futures with early literacy. This program provides children with a free, high-quality and age-appropriate book in the mail each month from birth to age five, fostering a lifelong love of reading, and creating an evidence-based pathway for a child’s success in later life.  Twenty-two percent of Australian children start school developmentally vulnerable. The strongest predictor is not being read to regularly at home. Ninety percent of children who start school behind, never catch up. In 2021, the NSW Government partnered with United Way Australia to enrol up to 17,000 children in the Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, improving access to books and encouraging shared reading at home. However, the government grant expires in June 2026.  Recognising its value, several communities are now working towards self-funding to ensure children continue to receive books at home. Over the next 12 months, Brewarrina , Coonamble, Gilgandra, and Walgett need your support to bridge the funding gap.  Brewarrina, Coonamble, Walgett, and Gilgandra are among the most disadvantaged communities in New South Wales, with some of the lowest literacy rates and limited access to educational resources. Families in these rural areas often face significant barriers, including geographic isolation and economic hardship, making it harder for children to access books and early learning opportunities. By focusing our support on these communities, we can help bridge the gap, ensuring local children receive the resources they need to build strong reading habits and brighter futures. Fundraising will be split proportionally amongst the 4 towns. Funds raised beyond the immediate needs of the towns listed, will be shared with other Dolly Parton Imagination Library programs in need across NSW.  Join us on Wednesday, 8 April 2026, to help raise vital funds and support these regional communities as they work towards a brighter future for their children. Your ticket includes: • Entry ticket to the 2026 Sydney Royal Easter Show • Seated BRUNCH FEATURING EXQUISITE DISHES PREPARED BY EXECUTIVE CHEF CYRIL MILETTO, paired with a selection of premium teas and freshly brewed coffee.  • Unlimited drinks If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute, donations are warmly welcomed via the link below. www.givenow.com.AU/earlylearning Important Note: Reservations for seats or tables will only be confirmed upon receipt of payment. For event enquiries, contact Shriya Rao on srao@rasnsw.com.au or 02 9704 1457.