Mr Trengove said many rural and regional schools were taking advantage of the offer.

''Last year was the first year we ran the program in this area. Schools will now be able to see the success of the program and hopefully contribute more this year,'' Mr Trengove said.

''Knowing the benefits, the schools involved are only too ready to assist distributing the vouchers and in raising funds where they can.

''They are most appreciative of the support.''

Mr Trengove visited Ararat and surrounding districts last week to personally deliver vouchers to selected schools.

Staff were then left with the task of deciding which students received the vouchers.

Mr Trengove said the vouchers could be used to purchase anything children require for school.

''The program is unique, in that recipient families can choose what they actually need for their children,'' he said.

''This is an excellent example of the active support given by The Ballarat Foundation to our regional community. It's great to know that children can return to school better prepared.''

Ararat West Primary School acting principal Terry Keilar said the school was grateful for the donation of vouchers.

''It's important to realise that these sorts of things can impact on a child's education,'' he said.

''Something as small as having the right pair of runners could be holding a child back.

''With the help of these vouchers students are being given the opportunity to succeed.''

Mr Trengove said the community could contribute to next year's Back to School Program by making a donation.

''There will be people who are in a position to contribute. They can even nominate a specific school.

''It's a great way to give back to the school and you could be helping the child next door to you,'' he said.

Anyone wishing to contribute can send a tax deductible donation to The Ballarat Foundation PO Box 1674, Ballarat Mail centre, 3354 or by contacting the Foundation office on 5329 4613.