On Tuesday, Nov. 12 Barriere Lions member Antoon Houben presented a cheque for $1,280 to the Barriere and area literacy outreach coordinator for Yellowhead Community Services, Jill Hayward.
"This donation goes towards our annual Raise-A-Reader fundraiser for youth literacy initiatives within the catchment. This includes free tutoring for youth, the annual indoor Teddy Bear Picnic at the Ridge in January, new books for children, and numerous other literacy initiatives for youth in the area. The Lions Club has supported our Raise-A-Reader program for many years and it most definitely is greatly appreciated," said Hayward.
As in the past, the donation can be matched by the provincial government in support of literacy programs in the area.
Houben is proud of the annual book sale and takes it on as a personal project.
"I have some wonderful help from the kids from local 4-H clubs that come after school to help move and sort ahead of the sale each year," Houben said. "We've told the 4-H club kids if they see any books they like they are welcome to take those home for free and if you think about it since literacy is the focus it's in keeping with the theme of promoting these reading initiatives. Some of them walk away with a couple of boxes of books they've discovered. They also help following the sales to store the remaining books for the next year's sale. We certainly appreciate their hard work and enthusiasm!"
According to Houben, the sale raised $830 in the year before last and his goal was $1,000 this year, which he "happily surpassed" by raising an additional $280 dollars.
Houben also reminds residents of Barriere there are two important events coming up in December which include the annual District of Barriere and Lions sponsored breakfast with Santa with approximately 150 to 200 children visiting that day. Each child will receive a brand new book paid for out of the literacy fund.
“The programs we offer for youth literacy initiatives in the Barriere area from McLure to Little Fort, include some really enjoyable family events each year supporting literacy in our communities," Hayward said. "We greatly appreciate the community support for youth literacy programs in our area. I hope people will contact me if they are interested in donating, volunteering or for more information."
To contact Hayward, she can be reached at 250-319-8023.
