Celebrating a Successful Back-to-School Event! We are overjoyed to share the success of our annual Back-to-School event, held on Saturday, August 17, 2024!
This year’s back to school event event was more than just a distribution of supplies—it was a genuine celebration of community spirit. Everyone came together to support one another, ensuring that every child was ready for the upcoming school year while also providing essential food and supplies to those in need.
Impact by the Numbers
This year, we distributed an impressive 1,432 pounds of food – 256 people benefitted from the fresh produce, fruits, non perishables, hygiene items and we provided 141 backpacks to students in need. Beyond the numbers, the connections we made, the support we provided, and the smiles we saw throughout the day are what truly made this event special.
A Day of Community and Care
The event was packed with activities, from grilling up delicious food at the barbecue to popping popcorn and offering resume help to our youth. It was a day where the community came together, demonstrating the power of unity and support.
Thank you MP Ryan Turnbull
A heartfelt thank you to MP Ryan Turnbull and his family for joining us and sharing their encouraging words. Your presence added so much to the day.
A special shout-out to Julia Luong and the entire Whitby Constituency Youth Council for their amazing partnership. From interacting with the youth in our community to making delicious popcorn and providing resume help, their contributions played a key role in making the event a success.
Thankyou Regional Councillor Steve Yamada
We also extend our deepest gratitude to Regional Councillor Steve Yamada and his family for being part of this incredible event and for generously donating some backpacks.
Addressing Food Insecurity
Food insecurity is not only a symptom of poverty but also a significant stressor that can impact overall well-being. When individuals and families struggle to meet their basic nutritional needs, the resulting stress and desperation can negatively affect their quality of life.
Our food program directly addresses this issue by providing access to nutritious foods. By reducing the immediate stressors associated with hunger, we promote a healthier, more stable community environment.
Acknowledging Our Incredible Donors, Supporters and Partners
A big thank you to Foresters Financial for their essential grants, which helped us provide much-needed food and hygiene items to those in need.
Thank You Tim Kennedy (Durham Corporate Centre Owner)
We are incredibly grateful to Tim Kennedy, owner of the Durham Corporate Centre for providing the space, the barbecue grill, and additional school supplies. A heartfelt thank you to Lisa, the receptionist at the Durham Corporate Centre, for your support at all times.
Thank you Costco, Scholars Choice London
Special thanks to Scholars Choice London for donating some backpacks and school supplies. And, of course, our thanks to Costco – Oshawa and Windfields Farm for their generous contributions.
Thank you Sheri (Cobs Bread Bakery Folkstone)
Huge thanks to Sheri Manning, owner of COBS Bread Bakery Folkstone, Whitby! Sheri generously donated the freshest hotdog buns and burger buns, which made our barbecue a truly special event. We loved serving up these delicious buns and creating unforgettable memories together.
Thank You Liz (No Frills Whitby)
Huge thanks to Liz, owner of No Frills in Whitby, and her amazing team! Liz went above and beyond to make our recent purchase smooth and effortless.
Your coordination and the fantastic discounts you provided helped us stretch our resources further, allowing us to serve even more families. Your generosity and support mean the world to us and our community!
Thank you Giant Tiger
A big shoutout to Joel, Giant Tiger store manager, Stacy, and the entire team! Thanks to their generous donation of gift cards, we were able to purchase back-to-school goodies that brought joy to so many children.
Your kindness is making a real difference in our community, helping ensure that every child feels excited and prepared for the new school year.
Big thanks to these amazing donors: Don from Unity Legal Management, Prasha Aime, Rachel Arhin, and all the generous community members who donated school supplies. Your contributions made the day extra special. Together, we’re making a difference!
Big Thanks to Our Volunteers!
Here are beautiful pictures from some of our amazing volunteers!!!
We appreciate our volunteers at Mannahelp. Their dedication, compassion, and tireless efforts make a profound impact on the lives of those we serve.
Whether distributing food, organizing events, or supporting our youth programs, each volunteer brings unique skills and a heart full of generosity. We are incredibly grateful for their commitment to uplifting our community, fostering inclusion, and ensuring that every person in need receives the care and support they deserve. Our volunteers are the backbone of Mannahelp, and their contributions make all the difference.
To all the volunteers who stepped up —thank you! Your hard work and dedication were the backbone of this event, and we couldn’t have done it without you.
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Thank you!