Max Dulumunmun Harrison... help for indigenous children. Photo: Glenn Campbell

A YUIN nation elder, Max Dulumunmun Harrison never went to school. But watching his granddaughter go through university made him so proud, the 76-year-old wanted every indigenous child to have the same opportunities.

Mr Harrison implored people to make sure indigenous kids got every possible chance at yesterday's Hands Across the Nation indigenous literacy appeal event.

As part of the appeal - of which the Herald is a media supporter - Sydneysiders painted their handprints on a giant wall in Martin Place yesterday. Personalities including members of the Wiggles, Mario Fenech, Matt Shirvington, Bridie Carter and Kerry O'Brien put their hands up in support of bridging the gap.

Thousands of Australians yesterday raised their hands to show they care about improving the literacy skills of indigenous kids.

According to the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation, four out of five children in remote indigenous communities cannot read at the minimum standard. This week's campaign aims to raise awareness and $3 million to expand its literacy programs running across the country.

The foundation's co-founders, Mary-Ruth Mendel and Kim Kelly, said through increased awareness and donating, Australians now had a way to support change.

''Empowering kids to help themselves is so important,'' Ms Kelly said. ''We've seen so many people's lives change because of [community programs] and it gives people choices.''

You can donate to the appealat any NAB branch or at www.alnf.org.