Over a thousand children received school supplies thanks to Sun Youth
August 15 and 16 marked Sun Youth’s annual big back-to-school party, held for the first time at the organization’s new facilities at 7501 Saint-Laurent Boulevard. Year after year, this initiative plays an essential role in supporting Montreal families by ensuring children have the supplies they need to start the school year off on the right foot. A total of 1,300 backpacks filled with school supplies were prepared, 300 more than in previous years.
Of these, 800 were distributed during our big back-to-school weekend. The remaining 500 backpacks will be distributed through our partners: 200 at partner schools, 200 to refugee youth supported by PRAIDA, and 50 to families supported by La Maison Bleue. The last 50 will go to families on our waiting list.
A festive event
Families were welcomed in a warm and lively atmosphere. Clowns from The Dr. Clown Foundation were there to entertain the children, while volunteers from l’École de cirque de Verdun gave them the opportunity to explore different circus arts. Games offered through our sports and recreation programs were also available, and face-painting sessions added to the festive atmosphere throughout the weekend.
The event also allowed participants to learn more about the organization’s work and the range of services it offers to the Montreal community. Allison Lemieux, Director of the Food Bank and Emergency Services, and Marina Boulos-Winton, Executive Director of Sun Youth, were there to connect with participants and share more about the different aspects of the organization’s mission.
Thank You to Our Partners
Thanks to the efforts of its teams, partners and volunteers, including CIMA+, CIM Conseil, TD Bank, Bombardier, Paysafe and RBC, who lent a hand at the event, Sun Youth helped support numerous families by easing some of the financial burden of back-to-school expenses and providing children with essential supplies to help them succeed.
Special thanks go out to the D’Amours Foundation, TMX, and all the other donors who make a real difference in the lives of these families.
More than a back-pack
The Sun Youth gym was filled with smiles and bright eyes as children received their school supplies. One child said, “I’m ready for school because I got my bag, the best bag in the world!” Another shared how much she loved school and her new backpack. These reactions show that, beyond meeting a practical need, having access to school supplies can have a positive impact on children’s motivation, confidence and excitement as they get ready to return to school.
