Give the Gift of Reading: The 2021 Indigenous Literacy Foundation Festive Appeal

Literacy is so important. To embrace reading, children need to learn to read in their first language. The Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) is a charity that publishes books written and illustrated by remote community members, many in first languages.

What is the Festive Appeal?

The ILF Festive Appeal is a fantastic opportunity to support remote Indigenous communities through the gift of reading and literacy. The theme of this year’s Festive Appeal is to Give the Gift of Reading this festive season.

How can you support the ILF Festive Appeal this year?

• Donate via the Gift the Gift of Reading card collection. Each card represents the gifting of two, five or ten books to children in remote communities. . These beautiful gift cards feature three stunning artworks from budding young illustrators from Milikapiti and Bidyadanga communities. Find the gift cards here.
• There are two book packs available to purchase. One is for early learners aged 2+, the other for readers aged 5+. Both packs feature two books, all of which are written in Aboriginal languages and English. Buy a book pack here.
• Donations are welcome at any time to support the critical work of ILF. Donate here.

Why and how your donation helps Indigenous kids in remote Australia achieve

We know reading opens doors to future opportunities and choices. It is a foundation skill that helps you navigate the world around you.

Many remote communities across Australia don’t have access to libraries or bookshops — that’s why ILF delivers book packs to kids through their Book Supply program. Each community selects the book packs they would like for their kids. Book packs are carefully selected for different age groups: toddlers (0-4), kids (5-7), big kids (8-12) and the community (13+). Over 40% of the books feature Indigenous authors and illustrators.

It is so important for kids to see themselves represented in books, building connections to community, language and a sense of belonging. By the end of this year, ILF will have provided over 325 remote communities with book packs, totalling 99,000 culturally appropriate books.