AS hundreds of Donegal
families prepare to send their children back to
school in September, Saint Vincent de Paul (SVP)
members are braced for an influx of requests for
help with the costs.
Donegal SVP vice president, Kevin Cooley voiced the
concerns of members who fear that, like last year,
there will be a surge in calls because of the
crippling cost of uniforms, books, extra-curricular
activities and other school-related expenses.
“With the return to school date fast approaching,
parents are already beginning to realise the
financial burden of sending their children back to
school, comparing it to be stressful as preparing
for Christmas,” he said.
A recent survey by the National Consumers
Association found that 80% of parents were concerned
about back to school costs.
The survey estimated the average cost of sending a
child to primary school is €320, and €470 for a
secondary school student. This will cover the
‘essentials’ but hidden costs such as
extra-curricular activities alone can cost up to
€150 and are often over-looked.
Mr Cooley said Saint Vincent de Paul experienced a
large number of parents seeking help last year, but
members are bracing themselves for a significant
increase again this year.
“Our experience is that most parents do budget and
plan for back to school costs but over 25% do not
and they end up needing to find funds elsewhere”
Kevin said. “Our biggest concern, however, is that
we know that many parents are borrowing to finance
their children returning to school. Some are using
credit cards, credit unions and more worryingly of
all - money lenders”.
Mr. Cooley appealed to parents not to borrow money
and encouraged them to approach SVP for confidential
help instead.
“There is some good news in that parents believe
their children now realise and appreciate that the
same luxuries like expensive branded sportswear and
€5 - €10 for lunches are not possible anymore,” Mr
Cooley said. “Parents, however, are all too aware
that while at least at Christmas costs can be
trimmed, corners cannot be cut with regard to their
childrens’ education”
* If you feel that St. Vincent de Paul could help
you cover the cost of sending your children to
school this year do not hesitate in contacting
either a member of your local branch of SVP or if
you are not aware of who represents SVP in your area
you can contact the Region Office in Raphoe on 07491
73933 or by email
svpnorthwest@gmail.com . (Inishowen
Independent) |
