OfficeMax is pleased to announce that entries are now open for the latest round of Max e Grants.

The Max e Grants programme enables education providers to nominate children for financial assistance via grants of up to $5000.  Grants are available to not-for-profit schools, kindergartens and day care centres.

OfficeMax New Zealand General Manager of Education, Dr Suzanne Flannagan, says the Max e Grants programme is designed to help less fortunate children escape the long-term effects of feeling isolated from their peers.

“Unfortunately for many children there is an overwhelming need for these grants, which can make a real difference in a child’s education and future opportunities,” Dr Flannagan said.

“Max e Grants help provide essential educational items such as school books, stationery, equipment and uniforms, as well as access to extracurricular activities including swimming classes and school excursions.

“In an ideal world there would not be a need for a programme such as Max e Grants, but while there is still a need we are pleased to be able to help in a small but important way.  A small grant can make a big difference to children, with lasting consequences in life skills, confidence and self-esteem.

“OfficeMax is committed to helping provide a more supportive and effective learning environment for every child,” Dr Flannagan said.

In the latest round of Max e Grants, more than 80 grants totalling $70,000 was distributed to help more than 1600 New Zealand children access a better education.  They are distributed in conjunction with community partner Barnardos Australia.

The grants helped pay for extra hours of teacher aide and support, stationery and textbooks, excursions, sporting equipment and extracurricular activities including club fees and uniforms.

Grants close at midnight, July 31. For more details, visit www.maxegrants.co.nz