Backpack Project
The Children’s Aid Foundation donated $3,000 to The Children’s Aid Society of the District of Thunder Bay to support a Backpack Project for children and youth being supported by the Society.
Volunteers were driven to stretch those dollars said Wanda MacArthur, Director of Children and Residential Services. Charmaine Cades, Manager of Volunteers says “that’s what happens when you turn passion and care for children over to volunteers supporting the work of the CAS.” “They do such great work” said Gail and Lois the two volunteers leading the project the past two years. “We did 75 backpacks with the $3,000 grant last year but as costs soar yearly we weren’t sure how it would go this year! We always want to do as many as possible so we requested cash this year to afford more buying options”.
“The volunteers did a lot of pre price shopping, and negotiating” said Brad Bain, Executive Director, indicated “we are so pleased with the results. The volunteer team (all receipts totaled at $2999.50) were able to do 101 back packs this year! Thunder Bay CAS is always pleased when they can provide concrete resources to families in need”.
Children’s Foundation President Bob Thompson said “we are happy to support these kind of initiatives. In addition to this project the Foundation provides funds for tutoring, sports equipment, driver education training, computer equipment, bicycles, music lessons, bursaries for post-secondary education, therapeutic toys and equipment.