The Smith Family launches 2016 Christmas appeal to help Canberra's children

As the Smith Family launched a national drive on Monday, in the ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr donated $10,000 to the charity on behalf of the ACT government.

"Here in the ACT people can see a very direct result, not only of government funding for community services, but also the results of their donations in terms of practical programs that make a difference in people's lives," Mr Barr said.

"We're the richest city in Australia, so not only is it the right thing but it's the appropriate thing that we are the most generous as well."

Through this appeal the Smith Family hoped to raise money to support 357 children in the ACT, this is on top of the 1800 children they had supported in the territory over the last year.

The Smith Family's ACT General Manager Annette Young said in the ACT the organisation focused on supporting families in Belconnen, Gungahlin and Tuggeranong by providing financial and family support.

Ms Young said one in three Australian children from disadvantaged areas are already behind when they start school.

Nationally 1.1 million people aged 24 or under live in poverty and the Smith Family is hoping to raise $3.6 million across Australia over the Christmas period.

"If they don't have additional learning support the education gap grows greater," Ms Young said.

She said fitting in to school could be tough for disadvantaged kids.

"Through these programs we help them catch up and then stay in line with their peers in terms of their learning."

She said they aimed to improve school attendance rates for children, help them finish year 12 and transition to further study or work.

The Smith Family is hoping to raise $3.6 million across Australia over the Christmas holidays.

Mr Barr and Ms Young seemed optimistic, formally launching the appeal in Woden as volunteers helped sort donated kid's books.

People hoping to make a donation can contact the Smith Family on 1800 024 063 or visit thesmithfamily.com.au.