Getting ready to start a new school year can be stressful when you don’t have the proper resources.

In Ontario, 17.2% of youth under the age of 18, and one in five children under the age of six, live in poverty.

The added burden of preparing for the first day of school only intensifies the pressure experienced by these families. United Way is ensuring that elementary school-aged children have a positive and well-equipped start to the academic year.

The Ready for School program focuses on providing children with essential school-related items for their first day of school.

Eligible participants must be referred to the program through their school or a local social services agency.

Once we’ve confirmed an appointment date and time, participants of the program will be partnered up with a volunteer, and be able to purchase:

• Something the child WANTS
• Something the child NEEDS
• Something for the child to WEAR
• Something the child can READ

If you are a school or community agency looking to recommend a student for the Ready for School program, please submit a request below: