United Way B.C. launches fall campaign with Kamloops community breakfast, focus on youth

The Kamloops gathering was one of five held across the province to mark United Way B.C. Day.

This year’s local discussion zeroed in on children and youth and the need for meaningful support beyond the classrooms.

“We’re just putting a focus on kids and youth because it is so prevalent in today’s society,” says Jen Cowden, director of corporate partnerships with United Way B.C. “We have lots of amazing programs here in the Kamloops and the Thompson-Nicola-Cariboo region, so we wanted to highlight the work that’s being done there.”

That includes “School’s Out,” an afterschool and summer program offering children aged six to 12 a safe place to find mentors, activities and food. United Way says those spaces are becoming even more important as families face rising costs and child poverty continues to grow.

“Making sure we provide spaces, safe spaces for kids to go when they’re not in school is important, but also ensuring that those spaces have intentional access to programs that foster development.” adds Rintoul.

Support doesn’t end after growing older.

The Youth Futures Education Fund supports students who have been fostered and have aged out of government care, allowing breathing room towards everyday expenses that tuition doesn’t support.

“Pay their car bill, maybe, or to pay for their food or pay for groceries. It gives them an opportunity to really focus on their schoolwork and be able to excel,” says Cowden, speaking upon the benefits of the funding.

The morning also recognized the volunteers and corporate partners who help keep these local programs running.

With the fall campaign now underway, organizers hope a full room – and a few full breakfast plates – can translate into more fully supported futures.

“We wouldn’t be able to do the work that we do without their support. It is a tremendous feeling to be in a room full of that many people who support the organization that you work for, and the work that they do within their communities,” states Cowden.

by Jeremy Russo

United Way B.C. launches fall campaign with Kamloops community breakfast, focus on youth

Our Community