At St. Paschal Baylon Catholic Elementary School, we believe that strong schools are built not only through dedicated educators and supportive families, but also through meaningful partnerships with the community. One of the most cherished partnerships our school has enjoyed over the years is the friendship between Canadian Tire #192 and our school community through the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Foundation.
More than ten years ago, a connection was formed through the shared belief that every child deserves the opportunity to participate in sport and physical activity. Our Physical Education teacher, Nunzio Grella, connected with David Hicks, whose commitment to community engagement and youth development aligned perfectly with the values we strive to nurture at St. Paschal Baylon.
Through the support of the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Foundation, Canadian Tire #192 generously donated skates, helmets, and storage containers to our school. What began as an act of generosity quickly grew into a long-standing partnership that continues to benefit our students today.
Thanks to this thoughtful donation, St. Paschal Baylon has been able to offer a meaningful skating program that removes barriers and ensures that all students have access to the joy and benefits of physical activity. Each year, more than 500 students at our school are able to participate in skating experiences — many for the very first time. For some students, this opportunity introduces them to a lifelong love of sport, while for others it builds confidence, resilience, and a sense of accomplishment as they take their first steps on the ice.
Programs like this do more than teach a skill; they create moments of laughter, perseverance, and teamwork that students carry with them long after they leave the rink. The generosity of Canadian Tire #192 has allowed countless children in our community to experience these moments.
This year, in recognition of over a decade of partnership and generosity, our principal Michelle Bottos proudly presented David Hicks with a commemorative plaque on behalf of the St. Paschal Baylon community. Nunzio Grella, the teacher who spearheaded the project, presented the plaque as it serves as a small token of appreciation for a partnership that has had a lasting impact on the lives of our students.
Community relationships such as this remind us that when schools and local organizations work together, incredible opportunities are created for young people. Canadian Tire #192 has demonstrated that investing in youth, health, and community truly makes a difference.
At St. Paschal Baylon Catholic School, we are deeply grateful for the continued friendship and support of Canadian Tire #192 and the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Foundation. Their generosity has helped ensure that our students can lace up their skates, step confidently onto the ice, and experience the joy of movement, community, and belonging.
We look forward to many more years of partnership and shared commitment to supporting the well-being and success of the children in our community.
