Providing kids with back-to-school supplies is about more than just having the right tools; it also boosts classroom participation, attendance and student morale. When students have access to the supplies they need, they feel more prepared and confident allowing them to focus on learning and engaging with their peers.
The BaCK to School supported students through two impactful strategies:
The Gift Card Program A $50 gift card allowed families to choose the items that are right for their child’s individual needs at the start of the new school year.
The Teachers’ Totes Program continued the care for our students in the classroom, helping to fill any gaps and helped to ensure that every student has what they need to succeed.
This school year because of your support, we were able to distribute 515 gift cards to students throughout Chatham-Kent. Thanks to you we were also able to place 26 teachers totes filled with essential school supplies in both elementary and secondary schools throughout the Chatham-Kent region!
Community Impact
- “Thank you for allowing me to experience the spontaneous excitement of a four year old when handed a gift card and being told that they can go shopping with Nana for back to school things. Other youths were looking forward to scrolling the sales at the store and putting their card to good use. Other caregivers were very appreciative of a gift card to help cover all those extra back to school costs. I am grateful to the United Way for allowing me to provide gift cards to children and youth in the community of Chatham-Kent.” -Caseworker from Linck
- “I cannot thank you enough for the gift cards to help with back to school items. This was a tremendous help during this time and helped get the kids happy and excited to show off their new stuff. I am forever grateful for the smiles this donation brought to my kids”-Mom from Tilbury
- “I have had several families benefit from the United Way Back to School gift cards. A lot of families have financial struggles and cannot afford new back to school items for their children. With the help of these gift cards I have had children on my caseload be able to afford getting a new back pack and new shoes for their first day back to school.” -Caseworker from Linck
Thank you for all of your support!
Last updated on November 11, 2024