With the start of school set for Sept. 8, the Nanaimo-Ladysmith Schools Foundation has again begun its annual fundraising effort for students in need.
This year’s Stock the Lockers campaign aims to raise $50,000, and according to Crystal Dennison, foundation executive director, money goes toward such items as breakfast and food programs, clothing, field trips, glasses, various fees and school supplies.
While Dennison is in her first year with the foundation, she is well aware of the plight of child poverty in Nanaimo, having served in the same position with the Nanaimo Foodshare Society previously. But her new position has allowed her better perspective. She is hearing from teachers, counsellors and principals how deep poverty runs across the district.
“It’s not just focused on any one particular school,” said Dennison. “Of course we have pockets where there’s definitely more need, but what we’re seeing is requests from all schools throughout the district.”
Throughout the previous five years of the campaign, more than $200,000 has been raised, Dennison said.
The campaign runs until Sept. 3, but Dennison said donations are accepted throughout the school year.
To donate, please go to www.nlsf.ca. Donations can also be made at all Staples and Nanaimo Coastal Community Credit Union locations.