A community organization is reaching out online and at a local business to raise awareness about child poverty in local schools.
Friends of Powell River founder Melanie Jordan is hoping a newly installed donation box at River City Coffee will help raise more awareness about child poverty, which affects 23 per cent of Powell River youth, according to a recent community Vital Signs report.
Jordan has been networking with over 2,000 concerned local citizens on Facebook since launching her fundraising platform earlier this year.
“It costs so little to help,” said Jordan, “and the need is so great.”
Jordan said her efforts started when she heard teachers and support staff were using their own money to buy new clothes, shoes and food for students in the district. Jordan, whose own children are grown, said she felt compelled to help.
“Teachers were helping out and feeding and clothing kids,” she said, “but it’s hard when they don’t have much money.”
Since she starting delivering food, clothing and additional items to Henderson Elementary School six years ago, Jordan said she’s expanded her efforts, now directing aid towards all schools in School District 47, including Brooks Secondary School.
“It costs about $10,000 dollars a year to help all the elementary schools,” said Jordan, “and about that much again for Brooks.”
By delivering clothing, grocery cards and other items to schools where teachers and support staff can offer aid discretely, Jordan said she’s been able to help hundreds of kids over the years.
To help Jordan, River City Coffee owner Kelly Sketchley has set up a donation box at her cafe, where those interested in helping can drop off items such as new and gently used clothing and personal hygiene items.
“Melanie is helping under the radar,” said Sketchley, “but we need to get it out there that there are kids in need.”
While Jordan said programs in Powell River are helping families in poverty, having parents sign up can be a barrier, especially when some adults find it difficult to admit they are struggling.
“Whatever questions we have about the parents,” said Jordan, “you have to respond to the kids.”
For more information about Friends of Powell River, readers can email [email protected] or ask to join the Friends of Powell River Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/1561081914171015.
