About

It's been 15 years since New Zealand's iconic telethon appeared on our screens raising money for good causes. Now the KidsCan StandTall Charitable Trust is bringing back Telethon - The ‘Big Night In' in partnership with TV3, to benefit Kiwi kids living in poverty.

The Cause

Education equals opportunity! Unfortunately in New Zealand thousands of children live their lives in poverty, going without the basics most of us take for granted. This has a major impact on their ability to learn and participate at school, preventing them to reach their full potential.

KidsCan StandTall Charitable Trust is a national charity dedicated to ensuring all Kiwi kids affected by poverty can look forward to a brighter future. Founded in August 2005 by Julie Helson and Carl Sunderland the KidsCan StandTall delivers three targeted programmes Raincoats for Kids, Shoes for Kids and Food for Kids These three programs help remove the physical and nutritional barriers which may prevent financially disadvantaged children who attend low decile schools, from getting the most out of their education.

These tangible initiatives currently support the education of more than 25,000 children each year in 102 low decile schools across New Zealand ensuring they not only get to school but keep them wanting to attend school, and learn.

KidsCan Standtall Charitable Trust is about leveling the playing field for disadvantaged Kiwi kids, enabling them to engage in their education and to be the very best they can be.