Back-to-School Support :
An event helps over 150 young people get ready for a successful school year

On August 13 and 14, Toujours ensemble (TE) brought together 25 volunteers, including employees from Symcor, to provide school supplies to more than 150 young people in Verdun. Led by Jeanne Dessureault, a community school worker, and Julie Felx, a teacher and former parent-student resource advisor at TE, this initiative ensured that these students are well-prepared for the upcoming school year.
The Power of Choosing Their Own Supplies
The highlight of the event was the opportunity for students to choose their own backpacks and school supplies. This simple act of choice is empowering: “Allowing young people to pick out their own backpacks helps them feel ownership over their materials and start the year with pride,” says Pascale, a volunteer who first started this initiative in 2017. This experience not only boosts their confidence but also sets a positive tone for the school year ahead.

Investing in Our Youth’s Future
With an average cost of $125 to equip each student, this initiative represents a meaningful investment in their educational success. Melissa Bellerose, Executive Director of TE, notes: “The community’s involvement sends a powerful message: we believe in our young people and are committed to supporting their growth, both academically and personally.”