The Hastings and Prince Edward Learning Foundation (HPELF) has received a $30,000 grant to support two of its programs.
The grant comes from the Alva Foundation which imagines a world where all children are happy, healthy and connected to the environment around them and provides financial support to Canadian registered charities who offer programs and services that support children and youth, and the environment.
The Alva Foundation is providing $25,000 to support the Sharing Cupboards program.
Sharing Cupboards is available in all seven Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board (HPEDSB) secondary schools – six of which serve both elementary and secondary students – allowing students of all ages to select food and household supplies to take home, helping to keep students healthy and engaged in their learning.
Last year, Sharing Cupboards received 4,060 visits from students and provided 11,967 meals and 26,281 snacks for student and their families.
The other $5,000 will be used to fund the new Rescue Readers program.
Rescue Readers runs in partnership with the Hastings Prince Edward Humane Society, HPEDSB and Belleville Rotary with a goal to increase knowledge of animal care and supports the development of literacy and empathy.
Students from HPEDSB visit the Humane Society with their class to participate in fun interactive literacy activities and read aloud to animals.
“Our new partnership is a testament to the incredible things that can happen when organizations and foundations unite around a shared mission,” said Executive Director of the HPELF, Kellie Brace “The Rescue Readers program is more than just a way for kids to practise reading—it’s a chance to build compassion, connection, and confidence, all while supporting the animals in the care of the Hastings Prince Edward Humane Society.
For more information about The Learning Foundation please visit www.hpeLearningFouncation.ca
