To be the program that help provide those who are in need of basic necessities including but not limited to school supplies, meals, and clothing HISTORY: Started as School Supplies Outreach Program, a visionary woman who grew up in poor living condition started this program in 2015. Now, the registered non-profit organization called Outreach Program Canada includes, food, clothing, small mobility
equipment and school supplies. Read below the history;
"In this program, I am advocating two things that are so important to me; the power of Education and the generosity that comes out from Sharing. Growing up, I was always short of school supplies because food at the table was the priority. I collected scrap pencils and crayons, about 1 inch or so left. I endured teasing from children but I knew I was helping my family by doing it. Our situation then was my motivation to never give up school. Our parents said, "Education is the only thing in life that once you achieved, no one can steal it". One sibling passed away but the rest of us 9 children completed education to certain degree, diploma and certification. Proud to say, we all completed school as working students. I was fortunate to experienced living in other countries when I got married; Makkah & Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Dubai, United Arab Emirates; El-Hajeb, Morocco and now in Calgary, Canada. In every country I lived, I learned valuable lessons in life: perseverance and to never give up. In Canada, I learned the amazing power of volunteering. I was amazed how many people volunteer their time, efforts, as well as donating some of their hard-earned money. You see, back home, life is a daily survival. To work for free was uncommon. However, growing up from a big family taught me the power of sharing. Teaching newly landed immigrants how to use computer programs was the very first volunteer work I did in Canada. Followed by volunteering at my kid's school fundraising, I sold chocolates and coupon books. Combining the power of education and sharing (your blessings) are the major factors that got me to create the School Supplies Outreach Program. Getting education is what helped my family get out of poverty. I believe no child should be deprived of education. The hard life I experienced growing up and the generous lessons I learned along the way are stories I share every time I personally deliver school supplies to the children. I say to them, "There is always hope, no matter what your status in life now, as long as you complete your education, you will go far in life. One day, you will also stand in front of the children to share your own story". I dedicate this program to all children who are the future of the world. I also dedicate this program to all the generous people who never get tired to share their blessings, as well as to those who gave their time and efforts to the program. But mostly, I dedicate this program to my husband and children who supported my vision, without their support and believe in me, I could have not done this. To all the people who had and yet to get involved, my heart is full of gratitude and forever will be grateful!" - Evelyn Serbout
