The Salvation Army Ottawa Citadel Supplies Schools with much Needed Water Bottles

Prior to the Provincial Government’s decision to close schools and pivot to on-line learning, The Salvation Army Ottawa Citadel was supporting local elementary schools with water bottles during the pandemic. With water fountains closed due to the spread of COVID-19 many children from low-income households were going thirsty throughout the day.

In the fall of 2020 Alta Vista Public School approached The Salvation Army for help.  The Ottawa Citadel provided them with 200 water bottles for students.

In the New Year, Ottawa Citadel Captain Jeff Arkell saw a post in a Facebook group from a teacher at Assumption Catholic School in Vanier, who was also looking for water bottles for their school. Captain Arkell  was able to provide them with 200 water bottles. After that, The Ottawa Citadel also purchased and delivered another 200 water bottles to St. Michael School.

“I take it for granted that I send my children to school everyday with a juice box and a water bottle,” said Captain Arkell. “But many students don’t have access to them, and we just want to help students be healthy and successful.”

Chantal Ulicny, a grade two teacher at Assumption Catholic School says their community has faced some challenges during the pandemic like the closures of water fountains.

“Thank you to The Salvation Army for the donation of water bottles. By providing each student with a water bottle, there is just a little bit less stress for families. Thank you for your kindness and for your generosity to our school.”

St. Michael School Principal Deborah Langdon says the school is always in need of water bottles for their students.

“Thank you for your kind and generous donation. It is so reassuring to know that we have a “stash” of water bottles to help students when they forget or lose their water bottle. We have already shared so many.  The kids love the vibrant blue and green and we can easily write their name on them. Thank you for being part of St. Michael’s Community!”