Needs are being filled and assistance is being received for a project at the New Germany Elementary School and the New Germany Regional High School to support students and their families.
Both schools have setup
lockers and a “free store” filled with essential items, which are accessible for families of students who may need things like non-perishable food items, personal hygiene products and gently used clothing.
“This really grew out of something we have been providing for a while,” said Angela Gladwin, New Germany Elementary School principal. A lot of the same families have students in both schools and the need was recognized that there were families in the community that needed help.
Both schools have an area in their building where things are housed, said Gladwin, “We have a selection of clothing and footwear, hats, mittens, food, hygiene and daily needs, that kind of thing. The advantage of having it right here is, the other day, we had somebody make a request [because] they couldn’t get to a store and it was an essential they needed in that moment and we were able to get it to them.”
Since launching the clothing, food and essentials lockers and free store earlier this fall, “the response from our community has been incredible both with monetary donations and items for our store,” said Jennifer McMullen, New Germany High School principal. “Our donations are rolling in each day and we are continuing to seek out businesses who are able to contribute to this initiative.”
Bridgewater Sport Chek is just one of the local businesses who have stepped up to the plate, donating about $250 worth of new winter wear and other products, with store staff also donating a box of goods. “We’re part of the community and it’s always nice when we can give back and help those in need,” said store general manager Jennifer Milbury. “We often try and support athletic things where we’re a sports store, but at the same time, it’s about community. We do a little thing called Sport Chek Gives Back. It’s just part of being in rural Nova Scotia. If a company like ours can help, we try to in any way we can.”
The lockers, or free stores, are “open to any of our families who need it,” said Gladwin. Items can be sent home with students or families can visit the schools to access what they need. It is being well used, said McMullen. “The turnover is currently high with many students and families accessing the free store. Our most popular items currently have been body wash, shampoo, other hair products, baby diapers, wipes, deodorant, laundry detergent and food. We are looking for new hairbrushes, hair dryers, hats, mitts and winter coats for the upcoming season. The food section is popular as well and we have some students who fill up their book bags on Friday afternoon to assist their families over the weekend.”
Gladwin said the schools are hoping to get some donation bins out and about in the community in the near future. “We need to be able to maintain the service and continue to get the message out and continue to get donations, whether they be monetary or goods to continue to help support the cause,” she said. “We really appreciate all of the support we’re receiving. We couldn’t do it without it.”
Donations for the New Germany schools clothing, food and essentials lockers and free store can be made at either school or in Bridgewater at the South Shore Regional Education Centre, located at 69 Wentzell Dr. “We always welcome donations, and love taking people up to see the free store, so anyone can reach out to me at [email protected] and I would be happy to walk them up,” said McMullen. “Together, we will reduce the effects of poverty in Lunenburg County.”
