Press for Change winner Jessica Mclure’s campaign launches across News Corp Australia

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powercard (1).jpgA campaign to encourage Australians to give an alternative Christmas card and help people who are homeless launched today across News Corp Australia papers and websites.

The campaign was created by Jessica Mclure, an AWARD School student who won the inaugural Press for Change competition. The News Corp Australia initiative aims to harness creative genius to drive positive change for Australia’s most deserving charities. Ask Izzy was the charity briefed this year as part of the competition.

The rechargeable Ask Izzy power cards, which cost $15 each to make, give people who are homeless and those at risk of homelessness up to four hours of phone battery life, thus connecting them with vital services.

Says Penny Fowler, community ambassador, News Corp Australia: “As we prepare for a festive season that, for many of us involves time spent with loved ones, we are proud to be supporting a campaign that encourages Australians to spare a thought for those less fortunate. We know that almost 80 per cent of people experiencing homelessness own a smartphone* and it is essential in connecting them with services they so desperately need. We hope Australians will give generously and offer this small comfort to people living on the streets.”

People can donate to the production of the cards via westpac.com.au/askizzy.

Once the cards are ready for distribution, Melbourne-based charity Infoxchange will distribute them to those in need.

Says David Spriggs, CEO, Infoxchange: “We’ll work with service providers around the country to distribute the cards directly to people who need them. With the help of RAMS and REA Group, we’ve already been able to get over 5000 charge cards into people’s pockets this year, with very positive results.”

The advertising campaign to support the appeal runs up until Christmas Day.

Ask Izzy is a free location-based online directory helping the one in 200 Australians who live rough find the food, shelter and healthcare services they need to survive. The site was formed in partnership between not-for-profit Infoxchange, News Corp Australia, Google and REA Group and was launched by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull in January this year.