Back to school made easier

We are thrilled to see a number of local charities coming together to help children in need this fall.

As school starts up, some families are struggling to afford everything that comes with a new semester of classes.

School fees, transit fees, new clothes, shoes, pencils, pens, books, notepads - it all adds up.

For families who live pay cheque to pay cheque, the all-at-once cost of going back to school can set some back and even make it hard to afford food and rent.

We are glad that programs like Supplies 4 Success (story on page 6) and Stephen’s Backpacks Society Footprints Campaign (story on page 8), Airdrie Food Bank’s breakfast program and countless other charities that help children go back to school are in place in this community.

As cliche as it sounds, children are our future and they cannot learn effectively if they are distracted by worrying about not having the proper clothes or shoes.

Not “fitting in” can also lead to bullying and isolation.

Students cannot focus when they are hungry. Having a full and nutritious breakfast gives children the ability to pay attention and retain information more accurately.

These charities are not only giving shoes, school supplies and food to these children, they are giving the gift of a quality education.

We are also thankful for the Airdrie residents who donate to these charities every year.

Thank you for helping make our future bright.