It’s that time again … back-to-school

With help from Nova Scotia Power Inc., Giant Tiger, and many volunteers, including interpreters, The Salvation Army was able to equip 220 children with backpacks through the Centre of Hope’s Community and Family Services in Halifax filled with school supplies so they can go back-to-school with the essential tools they need to succeed.

“Giving back to the communities we live and work in is important to Nova Scotia Power; we will definitely be back again next year,” says Carman Driscoll, Low Income Advocate for Nova Scotia Power. Carman liaises with charitable groups and organizations to support them via programs such as the Good Neighbour Energy Fund. He shared that the team who recently helped pack 175 backpacks have also enjoyed volunteering at the Centre of Hope’s Food Bank in the past. 

The rising cost of basic needs such as food, shelter and clothing, makes it very challenging for many families to purchase school supplies. Because of back-to-school programs like The Salvation Army’s and many others offered across our communities, families won’t have to make the difficult decision of putting food on the table or purchasing school supplies.

Volunteer, Coral Peterson, prepared hot dogs for children collecting their backpacks; she says, “It’s a privilege to play a role in helping to prepare children and families for the often expensive and stressful endeavour of getting ready for another school year.” She adds, “and to be a part of something bigger than myself is important to me.” Coral also volunteers at the Centre of Hope’s Food Bank on Tuesdays.

As students across our communities return to school next week, these 220 children will go to class feeling confident and prepared for the year ahead.