Tools for School gives a hand up to families in need

Fandrick says they’ll fill and deliver about 800 to 900 backpacks this year, on par with the past few years. That could change before the first day of classes, but Fandrick says there’s no need to worry.

“We keep going until every child gets what they need. So I might be wrong and by the beginning of the year we might have two, another two, three hundred,” she says. “Once people kinda get settled into school but I don’t want anybody to worry. My statement is no child left behind.”

The United Way is without one major donor and partner from previous years but still has Staples on board. Donations of supplies can be dropped off at the store and cash can be donated at the till.

“When they collect money at the till, a hundred per cent of that money stays in our community. Even though Staples is a national brand they individually tailor it for the community they’re in,” says Fandrick.

You can also donate supplies or cash at the United Way office at 641 Fourth Street SE. She says they’re grateful for any donations, but would be more than happy with paper right now.

Fandrick thanks the community for its continued support.

“This is an important program because these kids, they’re our future. You want to end poverty and homelessness and all that kind of stuff, it starts with the kids.”

by Chris Brown

Tools for School gives a hand up to families in need

Our Community