MEDIA RELEASE
August 11, 2009

TOOLS FOR SCHOOL

“It’s coming up really quickly!“ stated Executive Director, Diane Shannon; referring to the August 21st deadline for the annual TOOLS FOR SCHOOL program.  “This program gives young people the basic tools they need to succeed in school and become active learners with a bright future - “TOOLS FOR SCHOOL really makes an impact in the community.”

TOOLS FOR SCHOOL relies on the generosity of local individuals and businesses who contribute extra school supplies or a cash donation.  The United Way encourages everyone to consider picking up an extra item or two and visiting the donation bin at Staples or at Boston Pizza, Macdonald Avenue location.

Back-to-school is an exciting time for many young people who know they will get new shoes, new clothes, and still be able to register for extracurricular activities; however, for many families, filling a “school supply” list is an overwhelming burden on their limited budget.  Children from those families are at a disadvantage when they arrive at school without the necessary tools to learn and participate along with their peers.

Partnering for the eighth year with STAPLES and Boston Pizza in Fort McMurray, the program annually creates about 350 back-to-school packages for youth in all grades in both school systems. 

The 2009 program has another partner this year as Finning Canada is sponsoring a ‘Day of Caring’.  Several of Finning’s staff members will volunteer along with United Way staff to help sort through all the school supplies and make up the individual packages for delivery.

If a child in your family is in need of a TOOLS FOR SCHOOL package, please contact the counselor in your child’s school.