Tools for School Program

What is Tools for School?

The United Way's Tools for School program is intended to ensure that all S.E. Alberta students receive the educational supplies they need for classroom success. Even in today's high-tech world these supplies, ranging from pens and pencils to binders and workbooks, are essential. Unfortunately, they are often beyond the means of families with limited resources. In some areas, the demand for these supplies is as high as 3 in 10 students, most of whom are at the Jr. and Sr. High school level. Without the proper tools, these children can find it difficult to complete the schoolwork that will shape both their own future success and the educational health of any community.

How did the program start?

Ten years ago, recognizing a great need, United Way developed the concept of "Tools for School" to the Alberta Capital Region. Realizing the value of the program the United Way of South Eastern Alberta expanded the program to include our local communities. Since then, the need has grown reaching into rural areas. The community of Brooks has also come forward and participate with their own local Tools for School for the Grasslands School Div. Many local sponsors and partners have been apart of this important initiative from the beginning. With drop off locations available around both cities the community members mobilize forces to make this program a huge success for many less fortunate children.

Who are the Sponsors?

Over the last couple of years our demand for supplies have been increasing and we have also had a number of organizations inquiring about how they can get involved. This year we have asked all previous sponsors to participate as drop off locations. United Way coordinates the program in S.E. Alberta and works with the sponsors and local organizers in other communities, such as Brooks. We are pleased to be able to offer this program but it is truly the sponsors and donors who make it the huge success that it is.

Can parents request supplies?

If parents are unable to provide their children with required school supplies, they should inform the teacher or principal of their child's school. Teachers then contact their respective School Principal for the requested items. Tools are given with the utmost discretion to ensure self-esteem is maintained for each child.

How many children are in need of this sort of assistance?

Statistics are not available and will vary by school. In some areas the demand is as high as 3 in 10 students. If we can help one child get off to a good start, we are making a difference! Increased requests for a variety of school items put pressure on many families already struggling with the basics of food and shelter.

What is the goal?

Last year, we helped 100’s of students! This year, we already have already distributed several school packages! Since the program began four years ago, we have seen a steady increase in demand every year. Our goal is to provide supplies to as many students as possible ensuring they have a successful year.

Where can items be dropped off?

School supply donations can be dropped off at Staples, Boylan Drugs Pharmacy, United Way office, Medicine Hat Police Department and the Medicine Hat Mall in front of Shoppers, and in Brooks at the Brooks Hospital both in Admitting and in the Cafeteria, Links and the Brooks Food Bank.

How are "the tools" distributed?

United Way works directly with the School Boards to ensure the supplies get to the children who need them most. Tools outside of District #76 stay in the community in which they are donated.

What is the target age group or grade?

Many of the supplies on the "most wanted list" are more appropriate to Jr. and Sr. High school students. However, with the knowledge that Medicine Hat Div. 76 School fees include basic items for elementary, all donations are used and distributed where they are needed most. Keeping in mind that some of the supplies collected include brand name backpacks, lunch packs for the elementary students. Junior and Senior High Schools require graphing calculators which are relatively expensive but very necessary. These too, are on the most wanted lists.