We sat down with Jamie Ramos, Founder of The Sixth Child and new Juno partner, to find out more about their work.
The Sixth Child enhances the lives of disadvantaged children by addressing their specific needs through targeted community projects. Their work spans Australia and beyond, providing urgent material aid, cultural and First Nations outreach, social justice advocacy and educational tools to facilitate long term change.
Jaime, could you tell us about what inspired you to start Sixth Child?
Ever since I was about 19, I always wanted to do “something” to support kids who were struggling. Never did I think at that time that Social Work would be my direction. In 2015, after two years of advocating for disadvantaged children in the Philippines, I realised that I was doing what I had dreamed of as a 19 year old (now 45 years old). So I decided to use my skills to support children closer to home as well.
My why for setting up The Sixth Child is drawn from my own lived experiences. If I can help a young person feel less pain and sadness that I felt, then I know I’m making a difference. So with the help and support of a great team, we have helped thousands of children over the past eight years.
Along your journey, are there any stories from young people or families that Sixth Child have supported that will stick with you?
There are so many stories of what may seem like small results that inspire me to continue. From young people enjoying school and engaging, youth being able to participate in sports for the first time, to training educators on the impact of childhood trauma are fantastic.
What is your vision for Sixth Child in the future?
Our vision is to never lose our focus on helping children to lead happier and fuller lives. To grow through business and community support to a stage where we are able to run and carry out not only our own projects on our own premises but also be able to provide the support (we already provide) to many more children and youth.
Do you hope to expand your warehouse to other locations across Victoria?
Yes. We are hoping to be able to have a warehouse/factory space in Gippsland (Lands of the Gunai/Kurnai peoples).
Is there a message you’d like to share for young people and their families as we approach the holiday season?
As much as I would love to tell people that it will all be ok, that is not realistic. So rather I would encourage everyone out there to look inward to what brings them JOY and then share some of that with those closest to them and others if possible. Happiness can be contagious and we all can do with more happiness in our lives.
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The Sixth Child will be partnering with Juno to provide material aid to children and youth across our homelessness and family violence programs.
For more information about Sixth Child or to donate please their website.
