Women of Steel’s twelfth annual Back to School Backpacks Campaign was a success.
The group distributed 99 backpacks filled with school supplies to various organizations in the area, including Elkford Women’s Task Force Society, Sparwood Food Bank and the public schools in Fernie, Sparwood, Elkford and Crowsnest Pass. The packs are given to families in need, so their children can have a productive school year. Youth of all ages are covered, from kindergarten to grade 12.
“Our mandate is to have all kids equal on the first day. I believe we are getting a lot of the families that are really struggling and need the resources,” said Women of Steel co-chair Sarah Thompson.
“It sets them up for success … It just gives them the confidence to know they are the same as their friends when they go to school.”
Women of Steel is part of the United Steelworkers Union, which represents the hourly workers at Elkview and Coal Mountain mines. They held four barbeques in June in the Elkview parking lot to raise money for the cause. Teck and various unions also pitched in, and the combined total money raised was $10,000. Sparwood Toys for Tots supplied backpacks.
“Thanks for all the support. We’re happy to give back to the people who need help in our communities.”
@gfrans15
newsroom@thefreepress.ca
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