The Retired Teachers of Ontario Chatham-Kent branch has stepped up to help local students in need of good nutrition.
The local retired teachers donated $1,104 to Noelle’s Gift.
The foundation was created in memory of Noelle Paquette, a 27-year-old kindergarten teacher who was murdered in Sarnia on New Year’s Day 2013. The Paquette family continues to honour her by donating basic items to students and families in need.
The cheque presentation took place at the Links of Kent Golf Club on Wednesday morning in front of dozens of proud retired teachers.
The Retired Teachers of Ontario Chatham-Kent branch has donated $1,104 to Noelle’s Gift. Nov 27, 2019. (Photo by Paul Pedro)
Wilma Hunninck, Noelle’s Gift committee member, said the money goes to school nutrition programs across Chatham-Kent and Sarnia-Lambton to provide breakfast and snacks for students.
"We appreciate any donation to help students during these difficult financial times we're having and the growing food insecurity that many families are experiencing now," said Hunninck.
Hunninck said the local retired teachers are also planning a new venture called “Noelle's Closet” to help students in need with items such as coats and boots.
"In that closet will be necessities that children might need; socks, underwear, running shoes so that teachers can go to the closet and immediately get what the child needs," she added.
Hunninck said the new initiative also provides basic clothing needs in case of an emergency.
"If there's a family in an emergency situation such as a house fire, they can go to the principal and go through the closet and pick up the basic needs they need for that moment," said Hunninck
Hunninck said the campaign is starting to pick up momentum in Chatham-Kent and the group appreciates all donations.