Charlie was three years old when he was first paired with his Pyjama Angel.
Like many children in care, Charlie’s foundation for learning was unstable. He came from a family who didn’t have much formal education, and who found it difficult to read and write themselves. But with the support of his carer, his family, and his Pyjama Angel, Charlie defied statistics* and found a joy in learning through The Pyjama Foundation’s Love of Learning Program.
*In Australia, 47,000 children live in OOHC. Many experience poor educational achievement levels, drop out of school, and suffer long-term occupational, social, and wellbeing impacts. These impacts also mean this group is both high risk and over-represented in the criminal justice system.
Charlie and his first Pyjama Angel formed an incredibly special bond over eight years. This eventually led to his Pyjama Angel changing her life plan, swapping university courses from theatre to pursue a career in education. And the two shared some truly moving moments, from Charlie being ring bearer at her wedding, to her naming her first born after him.
A young Charlie attending his Pyjama Angel's wedding.
“Charlie is very important to me. I loved the kid, and just wanted to see him grow and thrive… He was like a little brother to me,” said his Pyjama Angel.
They spent their time together reading, playing, and doing various crafts, games, and activities. By the time Charlie was ready for his first day of school, he could read Mem Fox’s ‘Where is the Green Sheep’ perfectly. Charlie’s family was so impressed by the clever young boy.
“His family is incredibly proud of him, when he goes back to community, they show him around like a rock star,” Charlie’s carer said.
Charlie was a foundational part of The Pyjama Foundation which gave him access to a lot of opportunities, including interviewing the Federal Minister at the Shell Australia partnership launch, as well as travelling, meeting new people, and speaking publicly.
A young Charlie speaking at Parliament House.
Charlie and Former Child Safety Minister Di Farmer at The Pyjama Foundation's First Nations Art Launch.
“The Pyjama Foundation was his safe place,” his carer said.
During his time as part of The Pyjama Foundation’s programs, Charlie attended 13 Christmas parties and seven camps.
“The Pyjama Foundation inspired me to be a social worker, because I went along to [The] Pyjama Foundation Camps and all the kids loved me,” Charlie said.
Charlie with Broncos Rugby League legend Corey Parker.
Over thirteen years of educational support and a nurturing environment from his foster carer, his family and his Pyjama Angel mentor, Charlie graduated high school and went on to study social work at QUT.
“I think what The Pyjama Foundation does is very special,” Charlie said.
They say it takes a village to raise a child, and The Pyjama Foundation is grateful to be a part of Charlie’s.
If you or anyone you know is interested in helping a young person in care find their confidence, become a Pyjama Angel today! Click here to start your journey.
