Please help us raise $20,000 to put a smile back onto thousands of kid’s faces just like Andrew this Christmas.

Christmas feedback from a foster child named Andrew:

At 8 I had to leave my home with the police, and I was placed into foster care on Christmas Eve.   I was scared, angry and I don't think I have ever felt so alone. Christmas had never been like what everyone else talked about growing up, I never received a present before, my family never spent time together and when we did everyone was always so angry, there were always fights.  

I didn't think anything different would happen in care until I walked into the lounge room and sat on the couch watching the others in my foster family get excited about the presents under the tree.  I was so mean to them all, thinking they were getting a present and I wasn't, and I hated them all for it. 

My foster Mum started giving out the presents and I saw a huge present at the back of the tree with my name on it.  I started to cry, I don't know why, and I felt a bit dumb, but I was so happy. 

It took me ages to unwrap my present, I still have the paper and the card that looks like it was made by another kid and best of all my presents.  I got a skateboard, helmet and a bunch of balloons, I couldn't believe I got a present.  I shared the bunch of balloons with all the kids and we had heaps of fun in the backyard and my foster brother showed me how to ride my skateboard, it goes everywhere with me.  

I'm older now, but thank you for knowing I needed something too, it was one of the best days of my life and I will never forget the happiness I felt that day when I had been so sad the day before.

What if YOU could give a child this level of hope and put a smile back on their face. See their face light up and the joy that they show when they receive a present just for them and knowing that someone cares.

By donating this Christmas, you too will bring a smile and laughter to a child. A simple present can bring so much joy and happiness but can also reduce the stress and anxiety for those supporting our kids and families who are displaced at Christmas time.

Your donation this Christmas will help Backpacks 4 SA Kids put thousands of smiles on what would otherwise be very frightened and scared kids.