The Outreach Centre is once again collecting donations for the Tools for School program. In partnership with the United Way, this program provides free backpacks and school supplies to vulnerable students in kindergarten to Grade 12 whose families have limited resources.
In 2022, over 1100 students across central Alberta were supplied with backpacks and school supplies thanks to the generosity of the community. This year, the program anticipates even higher numbers. With families preparing for the upcoming school year, the demand is expected to grow over the coming weeks.
“Supporting the Tools for School program is a tangible way for community members to help us break down one of the barriers that keeps students from being successful in school,“ says Ian Wheeliker, Executive Director at The Outreach Centre. “Every student deserves an equal start, and this program allows the community to show our students how valued they are and how important their education is.”
Donations of backpacks and school supplies can be dropped off at The Outreach Centre (4101 – 54 Avenue) or the United Way (100 – 4828 53 Street). Cash and gift cards are also accepted, with 100% of the donation going towards the purchase of school supplies. To read more about the program, view the list of needed school supplies, or to make a monetary donation online, visit The Outreach Centre website.