Helper Highlight - Supporting Students in Need

Children have experienced a lot of change during COVID-19. School closures, loss of social circles and remote lesson plans have created a heavy burden for children and parents alike.

Debbie is a secretary at a school in a small rural Alberta community, and she knew that staying home would come with an array of issues for some of the students. Many children at the school participate in a hot meal program each day, having breakfast and lunch available to them on school days. With schools being closed, these programs were also forced to stop. Debbie decided to take matters into her own hands and began reaching out to parents to see if they needed help during the crisis. She assured each family that there would be no questions asked and that there is no shame in asking for help.

As requests come in, Debbie finds products and arranges delivery to families who need support. She is committed to supporting children and families during these difficult times. As a secretary for over twenty years, she considers the children her own family.

Thank you, Debbie, for stepping up to help vulnerable children and their families during this time. Your courage and compassion are a remarkable ray of hope during the pandemic.

We asked Co-op members, customers and team members to nominate people who are making a difference in their communities during the pandemic. We’re sharing a selection of stories about these helpers and what they are doing for their friends, families and neighbours during this time