United Way’s “Stuff the Bus” Helps Hundreds of Kids

Imperial – Day of Caring event (sorting supplies and stuffing backpacks)

Over 600 kids in Haldimand and Norfolk received new school supplies.

We were proud to deliver backpacks filled with new school supplies to over 600 students in need across Haldimand and Norfolk. At first, the goal seemed overwhelming as the number of kids in need grew from 125 to over 600 students, more than double from the previous year. Last year, 10 schools signed up to receive supplies while this year 29 schools signed up. This was in part due to the growing awareness of the program among the schools and community.

Our goal was to provide local students with the supplies they need to succeed, regardless of family income. We worked with the local public and Catholic schools to identify how many kids in the schools needed help and which supplies were needed the most. Donation bins were located throughout the two counties where community members could drop off donated items. The donated school supplies helped students of all ages.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation for the generous donation of back to school backpacks for students in need…and parents have been very appreciative. Thank you for supporting our students,”

Colleen Kelly, Principal of Hagersville Elementary School

Due to the generous support of local community members, businesses, churches and local charities, the United Way was successful in meeting this goal. A big thank you goes out to: Superstore, Staples, Norfolk County Public Library, Zehrs, Haldimand County Public Library, Giant Tiger in Haldimand, CAMHS Wellness & Recovery Centre, Dr. Lorelei Zeiler’s office, Julia’s Bistro, Domino’s Pizza, Cobb and Jones LLP, Norfolk Association for Community Living, Rotary Club Norfolk Sunrise, Lion’s Club Jarvis, Scotlynn Group, Toyotetsu, The Positive Vibe Project, RBC local branches, Mt. Zion United Church, St. Paul Anglican Church, Faith Centennial United Church, Simcoe Caring Cupboard, Turkstra Lumber and the many, many community members who became involved in this very important project.

The amount of donated school supplies was so great that three locations were needed in order to store them before distribution. Two Day of Caring events with staff volunteers from Libro Credit Union and Imperial were held to do the sorting, packing and delivery of the supplies to the 29 schools who signed up to receive them.

  • Libro Credit Union Day of Caring Event

When people work together, everyone wins!