Abbotsford – For many families, the start of a new school year brings excitement, anticipation and the familiar feeling of a fresh start.
It’s also a busy time as families prepare for the year ahead, from gathering school supplies and new backpacks to getting everything ready for the first day. For some, having a little extra support can make that preparation easier and help ensure every student walks through the school doors feeling confident, welcomed and ready to learn.
That’s where our community comes in.
This year, 850 students and their families benefited from the Abbotsford School District’s annual Back-to-School Backpack and Food Hamper Program. Now in its eighth year, the program has grown from supporting approximately 300 students and families to becoming a wonderful example of our community coming together to support local families.
Volunteers of District staff and community partners helped collect, organize, pack and distribute supplies. Backpacks were filled with essential school supplies, while food hampers included dry goods, fresh fruits and vegetables, bread and milk.
Families were also invited to stay for a community barbecue hosted by The Salvation Army. It was a chance to connect with neighbours, meet community partners and celebrate the beginning of another school year together.
We are grateful to the many volunteers, partners and sponsors who helped make this year’s event possible, including:
- The Salvation Army
- Archway Community Services
- Feeding Futures
- Canucks for Kids Fund
- Aggressive Towing
- Nova Dental
- Abbotsford Youth Commission
- Christian Life Community Church
Since its launch eight years ago, the Back-to-School Backpack and Food Hamper Program has grown from supporting approximately 300 students and families to 850 this year. The growth reflects the strength of community partnerships and a shared commitment to helping students arrive at school feeling prepared, supported and ready to learn.
The Abbotsford School District extends its sincere appreciation to the many volunteers, sponsors and community partners whose generosity made this year’s event possible, including: Feeding Futures, Archway Community Services, Salvation Army, Canucks for Kids Fund, Aggressive Towing, Kiwanis Club of Clearbrook, Nova Dental, Christian Life Community Church, and Abbotsford Youth Commission.
Together, they are helping create a community that cares for one another and keeps student success at the heart of what we do.
