From the Emily Stowe Public School website:

The Children’s Health Foundation and two local service clubs will receive a total of $12,887.27 raised by students at Emily Stowe Public School for a Grade 8 graduation trip to Quebec City that was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It was unfortunate that our students and their families could not have the graduation event we all hoped for, but the school is very proud of the generosity that the students have demonstrated in giving back to charities in their community,” said Principal Christine Harrower.

Children’s Health Foundation, Otterville Optimist and Norwich Optimist clubs were chosen after the school surveyed the 54 Grade 8 graduates and their families about which charities they would like to support. The Foundation and the clubs will get an equal share of the total amount.

Alison Vankerrebroek, president of the Norwich Optimist Club, who is also an Emily Stowe teacher, said her organization is especially grateful for the donation since the club’s traditional fundraisers have been curtailed by COVID-19 public health restrictions. She is also happy to see the money stay in the community where it was raised.

“I am so pleased that the Grade 8s chose our local Optimist club that puts the money right back into the community,” said Vankerrebroek. “I am so glad the Grade 8 class decided to keep the funds in the community.”

Scott Fortnum, President and CEO, Children’s Health Foundation, thanked the students for “paying it forward to support sick kids in our community.

“This year has been difficult, with many plans cancelled or postponed,” said Fortnum. “While it is disappointing that these Grade 8 students missed out on a graduation trip, it is wonderful to see them find a way to make it still meaningful. This generous donation will support patients at Children’s Hospital who are experiencing their own challenges in hospital during a pandemic.”

Otterville Optimist Club president Christine Hussey said her organization is“very grateful and appreciative for the donation from the Grade 8 class of 2020.

“We will ensure that the money will stay in our community and will be a representation they will be proud of for years to come, and for all to enjoy.”

Kate Hamilton, Chair of Emily Stowe Public School Parent Council, added: “I think this donation represents what is at the heart of our school and of our community. Repurposing funds to support these organizations is a wonderful example of our graduates coming together to make a socially-minded decision that is sure to have a positive impact.”

A special outdoor ceremony is planned with students from the graduating class presenting the donations to representatives from each organization on Saturday, November 14th at 2 p.m. at Emily Stowe Public School.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the school recognized the Grade 8 graduates with a virtual event that included a drive-up photo opportunity on Wednesday, November 4.

Filed under: charity, donation, Norwich, school