Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagara is kicking off The BIG Start program for the third year in a row today.
A school bus-courtesy of Switzer-Carty Transportation-and donation bins will be parked at the Niagara Pen Centre’s Event Court until August 20. They're collecting new, unopened school supplies for local youth. Online donations are also welcome.
In 2023, the program helped 46 youth with a $200 shopping experience and provided backpacks to another 180. This year, BBBSN hopes to expand its reach-aiming to support over 60 youth at a special shopping day set for August 23.
Beyond helping kids gear up for school, the event offers a valuable opportunity for mentors and mentees to connect and talk through back-to-school hopes and anxieties.
(Written by: Brandon Warby)