Education Minister, MLAs support Regina students in need

REGINA, SK – The Salvation Army Haven of Hope Communities Ministries hosted the Honourable Don Morgan, Minister of Education, last week in connection with their annual School Supply Backpack Drive. The Minister’s office not only brought donations of school supplies, but volunteers from his staff attended to help fill backpacks for children in need.

The Minister also issued a challenge to other Reginians – in particular, Mayor Fougere – to collect and drop off school supplies for this worthy cause.

Also in attendance alongside the Education Minister were Gene Makowsky, MLA for Regina Dewdney; Warren Steinley, MLA for Regina Walsh Acres; and Russ Marchuk, MLA for Regina Douglas Park.

Val Wiks, Community Ministries Coordinator for Haven of Hope, said demand has increased thanks to raised awareness of the program. She reports that parents have been expressing relief that their children will be able to start the school year ready to learn.

To date, there have been 670 requests for backpacks which is on track to exceed last year, when 702 recipients were helped.

To apply for a backpack, please attend the office in person at 2240 13th Avenue (the corner of 13th and Lorne) or call (306) 757-4600. Monetary donations or donations of supplies to continue helping students are gratefully accepted at the same address and phone number.

Photo: (l-r) Gene Makowsky, MLA for Regina Dewdney; Val Wiks, Haven of Hope Ministries; Warren Steinley, MLA for Regina Walsh Acres; Honourable Don Morgan, Minister of Education; Russ Marchuk, MLA for Regina Douglas Park pose for television media with backpacks courtesy of The Salvation Army program.