Essentials for Learning

‍Ensuring every child has a fair start.

Food. Transit fare. A warm coat.

These simple things can be out of reach for families who are financially struggling. 

EducationMatters is directly connected to Calgary schools and provides basic needs support for thousands of CBE students each year. 

"We are grateful for the many partnerships and donors that allow us to support our students with the things they needs to ease some of their personal worries and help them successfully complete high school."

–  Patrick Tomczyk, principal, Discovering Choices School

What donor gifts provide

Gifts for the Essentials for Learning priority area directly benefit students and families experiencing financial insecurity or hardship. We direct donations to where your help makes the biggest difference, transforming your support into real, visible changes for students.

Here’s how you make an impact:

• Gift cards for families to purchase necessities and supplies such as proper fitting winter boots, warm coats, and food for little tummies.
• Learning resources, such as backpacks and supplies, graphing calculators and laptops, so every student can fully participate in class.
• Breakfast and lunch programs for students who don’t have food essentials at home and start (and continue) the day hungry.
• Transit passes to help students get to school.
• Hygiene items that provide dignity to students who cannot afford deodorant, feminine hygiene supplies, shampoo, toothbrushes and paste, and basic grooming items.

"When this support is provided to families, you can visibly see the relief on their faces. You notice that the following week, the lunches have fresh fruit or veggies in them."

- Principal

"These families are struggling between paying rent and feeding children so giving them the gift of groceries was priceless."

– Teacher

Student Well-being

EducationMatters also funds another basic need – that of student well-being – to help all CBE students thrive in school. With donor support, we contribute to CBE wellbeing initiatives, including:

• Student Well-being Symposium
• Student Wellness Action Teams
• Staff Training
• Onsite Supports
• Wellness Spaces