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Children in Need Fund Grows
On December 7th, local philanthropists Dave and Sandra Falk presented a cheque for $1,000 to Janelle Botterill, to add to the “Children in Need Fund.” “Dave and I saw it as an opportunity to give support for those who take initiative to help make Portage a better community, said Sandra. “We are particularly pleased that young people are supporting the Foundation and its work.”
Photo: Janelle Botterill accepts cheque from Sandra and Dave Falk
On November 24, Janelle and Andrea Mitchell, members of the “Get Stuffed” volleyball team, signed a fund agreement with the Community Foundation of Portage and District to create the “Children in Need Fund.” The team hosted a volleyball tournament and social on October 23, and the proceeds of $2240 formed the basis of the Fund. With the additional dollars the Fund has increased in size creating a new balance of $3240.
“The Foundation is a great platform to begin our own process to create a fund that will allow us to assist those organizations that have been established to assist Children in Need in our community.” stated Andrea. “We look forward to hosting more events in the future. 100% of the proceeds we make from our events will be added to the Fund.” Janelle added, “On behalf of our volleyball team, we'd like to thank all the people who took part in the volleyball tournament and social; your contribution is meaningful and is helping to make a difference in our community.”
The earnings from the fund will stay in Portage and go to groups who provide food, clothing, shelter and comfort to children of all ages. “We wanted to provide support and help supplement what local organizations are already doing,” said Janelle. “Our vision for this fund is to focus on children who do not have enough food to grow, can't think or sleep because they are hungry, have no energy to function well, or sufficient clothing to keep them warm in the winter. “ The team would like to see the dollars go towards a breakfast program, or lunch program or to spark interest for other innovative programs that address helping children in our community.
Photo: Janelle Botterill and Andrea Mitchell hand over a cheque for $2240 to Vice President, Ray Johnson at the signing of the Children in Need Fund
The team thought it was a great idea to open up a fund that would be permanent, would continue to build over time and eventually be self-sufficient. As the fund grows so does the amount to give back to the community to support those children’s needs. If you would like to add to the fund please give the Foundation a call at 274-2442, e-mail cfpd@mts.net.
“Portage has an issue that many communities in this province and country have, and that is that there are kids who need assistance in different areas of their lives,” commented Andrea, “We simply want to help and do our part,” said Janelle. “As a good person once told me, "It takes a village to raise a child" -- our team wants to be a part of that village!"