By Simon Doble | Founder and Global CEO
We understand that in your daily life, you have many things to do. Thank you for making reading and writing, for children living in energy poverty, a priority! You are such an important force in improving literacy.
I'm a storyteller. I believe stories have the power to change the world and the power of the written word is transformational. With the ability to read and write, beautiful stories can be shared, creating a bridge to understanding and connection. Stories are the germination of inspiration, often coming from afar.
With inspiration comes action, so I'm thrilled that SolarBuddy is close to completing our first book, Captain Solar. I also can't wait to share with you shortly, seventeen new children's books. You're the first to hear about these! They are all designed to inspire children to actively invest themselves in actions for good.
I believe literacy is as fundamental, as it is momentous. Do you?
Literacy is life-changing
Literacy enables people to fully engage with everyday life, to communicate and understand what is going on in the world around us. At SolarBuddy we believe literacy is freedom, a human right, a pathway to a thriving future.
You've asked what we are doing for children living in energy poverty in Australia. We are thrilled to let you know we've partnered with the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation (ALNF) to open opportunities for Australian children. “We are excited to be working with SolarBuddy to light up children’s worlds and brighten their futures. With SolarBuddies, one more barrier to learning and participation is removed.” Kim Kelly- ALNF Co-Founder and Executive Director.
This partnership has been kickstarted with a donation of 550 SolarBuddy lights to ALNF’s literacy packs. These will go to children living in Alice Springs, Australia where there's 300 sunny days every year!
There's approximately 500,000 Australian's living in energy poverty today. I believe this is simply unacceptable and I want to end energy poverty in Australia in the next 3 years. We're on our way but need you with me to get the job done. Will you join me?
Literacy equals opportunity
"Since we received these lights we have started evening study sessions for students in year 5-10. I have seen a big improvement in the students ability to read and write. On average our students speak 3+ languages, so having more time to focus on English at school gives them better opportunities for the future."
Sonya Teacher in Malekula, Vanuatu
Lights in motion!
This month we have 5,000 lights being distributed in Cambodia, Madagascar and Papua New Guinea. Covid-19 has made shipping slower than we'd like, so it will take a month or so for the next 6,200 lights to make their way to Cambodia, PNG, Timor-Leste and Vanuatu.
Will you consider donating the gift of light to another child? I know the children will never forget your kindness.
I am so hopeful for the future. Increasing literacy rates is a crucial and that's why I've dedicated my life to illuminating the futures of all children. Thank you for making this possible!
Simon Doble
Storyteller, Founder and CEO, SolarBuddy.
PS I thought you might like to hear directly from Grace, a teacher who sees first hand, the impact of light on literacy. Please see short video attached.
Links:
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