The Smiths are grateful for the after-school program at Black’s Harbour School.
Joanne and John Smith both have jobs, but like so many today are struggling with the rising costs of food and rent.
They can’t afford to put their children into sports or other activities.
But the after-school program – subsidized in part thanks to United Way funding – costs parents very little, much to the Smiths’ relief.
“Without this program, our children wouldn’t be able to attend anything outside of school,” Joanne says.
The program – which focuses on life skills, math and reading in a fun way – has proven effective, with 95 per cent of youth maintaining or excelling in numeracy or literacy.
“The girls who run the program also put their hearts into all that they do,” Joanne says. “My kids love it and they are getting so much from it. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”