OKLearns volunteers adding food to a Christmas Hamper

Since the Okanagan Learning Foundation started assisting students and teachers several years ago, we’ve been closely focussed on our Food for Thought pantries, our scholarship program and supporting teachers with grants for programs and continuing education. But back before our first Christmas, we approached a few generous families and individuals and connected them with students that we knew needed a little extra support. The support came in the form of Christmas hampers, with small gifts for every member of the student’s family. Some needed a Christmas dinner, others a warm jacket, or a pair of shoes. We’ve continued the Christmas Hamper program, asking for help every year since.

Now though, in this year of years, people in our community aren’t waiting to be asked. We have for the first time had wonderful members of our community stepping forward and contacting us to see how they could help. Every other day, we receive a phone call or an email from someone who wants to do what they can to make the Okanagan the sort of home it can be. Every Christmas Hamper funded by these generous donors goes to a family identified by the student’s teachers, counsellors or school administrators. Every hamper is put together to meet the needs of a specific student and his or her family. And every hamper brings a little joy to what has been a difficult year.

Thank you all, for helping students find the light in a dark time. Be kind, be calm and be safe - 2021 will be here soon!