Donations urgently needed for “Tools for School” as demand doubles

Aug 18, 2022 | 1:56 PM

While it may be the most wonderful time of the year for some parents, back to school is becoming financially challenging for others in Red Deer.

The Outreach Centre and United Way say the demand has doubled this year for their Tools for School partnership program.

The two organizations confirm they met last week to discuss the urgent need for backpacks and school supply donations.

“We are running very short on supplies. The number of applicants has greatly increased this year, and every day that number is growing. There is a significant gap between the number of students requiring backpacks and the amount of supplies that we have available,” said Ian Wheeliker, Executive Director of The Outreach Centre.

The annual program consists of backpacks filled with school supplies for Kindergarten to Grade 12 students, handed out not just to city residents, but also to those in small towns and rural communities surrounding Red Deer.

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According to The Outreach Centre, in 2021, over 900 students across central Alberta were supplied with backpacks and school supplies. This year, staff say the demand has doubled and they expect to see a record number of students requiring backpacks.

“These donations are crucial for families with limited resources who can’t afford the necessary supplies their children need for school”, said Chelsea O’Donoghue, Chief Executive Officer of United Way Central Alberta. “When you donate to a program like Tools for School, you are helping to pave the way to success for these kids. They start the school year off on the right foot.”

For those wishing to donate, backpacks and school supplies can be dropped off at The Outreach Centre (4101 54 Ave.) or United Way (4828 53 St. Unit 100).

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.

by rdnewsNOW Staff

Donations urgently needed for “Tools for School” as demand doubles

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