17-year-old Jackson is one of 49 West Australian children living with sickness, disadvantage or disability who have received a 2021 Variety Heart Scholarship to pursue their talent in sport, the arts or education.
Jackson is legally blind, however, has never let that stand in the way of his athletic career.
Jackson used his recent scholarship to attend the National Athletics Championships in Sydney where he broke his first open Australian record in para javelin.
“Without Variety I would never have been able to take the next steps in my athletics career, and without their support I would not have been able to attend national events,” he said.
Jackson received his first scholarship from Variety – The Children’s Charity of WA in 2015 which allowed him to attend the same National Athletics Championships.
With the support of Variety WA, Jackson has achieved results that place him in the top 3 in the world this year for the F13 class.
“Variety funding has an enormous impact for families, it allows young people to follow their dreams and helps with the financial burden on the family” said Amy, Jackson’s Mum.
Variety WA Chief Executive Officer Tony Hume said the Variety Heart Scholarships lessen the financial pressure on parents and supports the kids in our community.
“So many kids just need to get a start and then their incredible talent is unleashed,” he said.
Variety Heart Scholarships provide much needed funding to children which allows them to pursue their passions whilst relieving the financial pressure on families.
Since being established in 1996, Variety WA has awarded 613 Variety Heart Scholarships worth more than $1.5 million.
The 2021 Variety Heart Scholarships are able to help kids like Jackson thanks to major sponsor Perth Airport, as well as the Bendat Family Foundation and the Whatley Foundation.
To support the Variety Heart Scholarships and other programs, donate to Variety – the Children’s Charity of WA here: https://ww.variety.org.au/wa/donate/
Media Contact:
Asha Healy
Variety – the Children’s Charity of WA 0455 188 974