Media Release: Stratford Youth Spread Christmas Cheer
Posted on 01/10/2020
Items for Christmas FamiliesFor Immediate Release: January 10, 2020

Last month, the Stratford Youth Centre members and Stratford Youth Council wrapped up their Helping Hands Project, an initiative organized and led by the Stratford Youth Council to help those in need over the holidays and winter months, while at the same time supporting a family in need from our community.

For the third year, members of the Stratford Youth Centre were able to sponsor a family of 4 children with their Christmas celebrations through the purchase of a selection of toys and gifts, clothing, Christmas dinner food items, and stocking stuffers for the family. Additional gifts that were collected were used to help other families in need as well.

“The commitment and dedication of these young people should be recognized and encouraged,” stated Youth and Family Coordinator, Duane Pineau. He added, “To be giving to their community selflessly at such a young age is truly impressive and their hard work never fails to surprise me.”

Their second project saw members putting together 45 care packages for the homeless on PEI. Undertaken for the second time, these packages included basic necessities such as backpacks, gloves, socks, hats, toiletries, and treats. The Stratford Youth Council applied and received a Rising Youth Grant of $750 to help with the cost of this project, and collected donations and sold raffle tickets to raise a total of $2300. These care packages are distributed through the Canadian Mental Health Association through the ‘My Place-Housing First’ program.

“It is heartwarming to see young people who care so much for their community, said Stratford Mayor, Steve Ogden. “We thank them for spreading the spirit of giving in our community.”

The Stratford Youth Centre provides youth in grades 5-12 a safe, supportive environment to participate in social and recreational activities and is designed to promote leadership and help them become more engaged and involved in community activities. The Stratford Youth Centre currently has 54 active members. In 2019, the members contributed a total of 1912 volunteer hours in our community. New members are always welcome at the Stratford Youth Centre. While there is no cost to become a member, participating youth are asked to volunteer to help with youth centre activities and projects throughout the year. For more information on the centre or becoming a member, please call (902) 367-3294 or email [email protected].


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For more information please contact:
Jade Veera, Engagement and Research Coordinator
Town of Stratford
Phone: (902) 569-1995
Email: [email protected]

Print version: Media Release - Stratford Youth Spread Christmas Cheer (January 10, 2020).pdf