Education is one of the most important tools in shaping both individuals and society. It not only provides children and young people with the knowledge and skills necessary for a career but also develops their thinking, values, world-view, and adaptability. Education helps young people understand the world around them, make informed decisions, and take responsibility for their future.

From early childhood, educational disciplines contribute to the development of basic cognitive skills such as logical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving, which are crucial in later life. They help form social and emotional skills, aiding children in developing empathy, teamwork abilities, and building relationships with the world around them. Young people who receive a quality education are better prepared to face life’s challenges, build careers, and actively participate in social life.

Education is also the foundation of social mobility. It provides young people from different societal backgrounds with the opportunity to climb the social ladder, obtain better living conditions, and reduce the impact of inequality. This is especially true for children from disadvantaged families, for whom education becomes the key to improving their living conditions and breaking the cycle of poverty.

The problem of access to education for children from disadvantaged families

Although education is a crucial aspect of every child’s development, children from disadvantaged families face numerous barriers on their way to acquiring quality knowledge and skills. These families often lack the financial, emotional, or social resources needed to provide children with all the necessary conditions for successful learning. The reasons may vary: chronic poverty, social isolation, a low level of parental education, or even domestic violence.

Many children from such families are forced to work, help at home, or care for younger siblings, which significantly limits their resources for learning. Additionally, such children often lack access to additional educational tools: tutors, clubs, educational materials, which could make their learning process more effective.

We should not forget about the emotional aspect of the problem. Children from disadvantaged families often feel isolated from their peers, less confident in their abilities, which also affects their motivation to learn and success at school.

The role of charitable organizations in increasing access to education

Charitable organizations, whose programmes are aimed at developing education for children from disadvantaged families, become a bridge for overcoming issues with access to learning and create an environment where children gain access to educational resources, development opportunities, and mentoring support. These organizations offer programmes that include:

• Covering educational fees and providing necessary learning materials.
• Organizing additional courses, summer camps, and educational events.
• Providing mentoring support from experienced professionals in various fields.
• Psychological assistance to children experiencing difficult life situations.

Children who receive such support have a better chance of success because they not only receive an education, but also have the opportunity to believe in themselves and see different perspectives in life, which increases their motivation and desire to achieve better results.

One example of such work is the Leus Foundation, which funds programmes in the areas of health and well-being, cultural awareness and sport, all aimed at helping today’s children and young people facing difficult circumstances. The foundation funds sports activities, including fencing, and organises youth clubs for children and teenagers with serious illnesses.

Disadvantaged families often lack the resources to provide even basic education for their children. In such circumstances, children are overlooked by society and become victims of social isolation. Therefore, the support of charitable organisations that strive to give children from such families a chance at a better life is one of the most powerful drivers of social development.

Education is the foundation for overcoming social inequality, and children from disadvantaged families are particularly in need of support to gain equal access to educational opportunities.