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Sutherland School
Inspiring Learning
News Item

Community groups play key role in supporting Sutherland students

October 07, 2019

Sutherland Breakfast.jpgThe efforts of a variety of community organizations play a big role in supporting the learning and school experience of students attending Sutherland School.

The school has long-established relationships with the Saskatoon, Nutana, and Downtown Lions clubs, the congregation of the nearby St. Paul's United Church, and the Hub City Optimist Club. These partners provide both volunteer and financial support to activities and programs that benefit students and the school community.

And, earlier this fall, the school received a special donation of $13,927 courtesy of a fundraiser sponsored by the FMI Group, which operates KFC restaurants in Saskatoon.

"We were shocked, thrilled and overwhelmed," Principal Colette Delainey said of the donation. "We are excited to use these funds to support many areas of our school including the nutrition program, student learning materials and a variety of resources.

KFCDonation_news.jpg"Sutherland School is a great place to be and we are fortunate to have established many partnerships that continue to support our students and families. The generosity of our community is humbling, and we are appreciative of every dollar we receive. Their contributions provide important programs that impact our students on a daily basis and help us as we work toward our vision of ensuring our students are Known, Valued and Believed In."

The work of the city's Lions Clubs has been a special partnership for both the school and club members. As an example, the clubs provided funding for the recent Grade 7-8 student leadership retreat and over the past several years have contributed more than $20,000 that has gone toward camps, play days, tables for school events, food for spring school-wide events, cereal and milk for the breakfast program, and the support of students in many other areas.

"Norm Swinnerton and David Thieme, both of whom have been huge supporters of our school, have gone above and beyond in fundraising for our students," Delainey said. "These two gentlemen truly care about our school and community and it is an honour to work alongside them. They are busy organizing another Christmas concert benefitting our school."

Volunteers from St. Paul's United Church and Rev. Deb Walker provide support for the school's breakfast program by coming in every day to serve breakfast and visit with students.

The Hub City Optimist Club contributes to the school community in many ways through the Care and Share Program. In addition to its financial support, the club provides food, grills and volunteers for fall and spring family barbecues. The school's annual Christmas hamper program would not be possible without the club's support.

"The groups and organizations that support our school are an important part of our community," Delainey said. "Their support of programs and special events for both students and families in our school help us strengthen the spirit of community at Sutherland School."