A CHARITY that provides educational support to children has said that Limerick parents are struggling to meet the cost of sending a child to school – which can cost in excess of €750 per year.
The Indira Initiative, based at 72 O’Connell Street, offers one-to-one tuition and discounted books and uniforms for primary and secondary and third level school students.
Founder Suzanne Roche said: “Limerick parents are really struggling. As this school year finishes, they are looking towards September and there is a genuine fear they won’t be able to provide the uniforms and books. This is a significant financial pressure for most parents, especially those who may be already struggling financially.
“I know one man who had to buy a second-hand jumper just to get the school crest as he couldn’t afford the official school jumper. These are the lengths parents have to go to these days,” she said.
A recent study by Barnardos found the average cost of attending school for a child in senior infants is now €355, climbing to €390 for children in fourth class and €770 for a child entering first year in secondary school.
It also found that 23 per cent of parents are paying between €76 and €100 for a uniform for their primary school-going children, while 18 per cent are paying between €101 and €125.
and the situation isn’t much better at secondary school level with 17 per cent of parents paying €150-€174, while a similar amount are spending between €175 and €200. 15 per cent were spending more than €250 on uniforms.
The Indira Initiative, which is totally dependent on donations from the public, is now seeking second-hand school uniforms and books from city and county school to pass on to hard pressed parents.
“We are appealing for uniforms and books in a good condition as well as third level books. We accept donations of second-hand clothing for adult and children as well as communion and confirmation clothing, books, DVDS, toys, accessories and shoes,” said Suzanne.
For more www.facebook.com/IndiraInitiative
