HOST Program helps students in need in every Ottawa high school
Program gives financial aid to help students graduate
Dreams come true.
When a friend and I started the Help Our Students (HOST) Program in 2010, giving financial assistance to hard-working students living in difficult financial circumstances so they can graduate high school, we were able to help three students from two local high schools. Our dream was that, one day, we could help one student in every Ottawa high school. This year, we are giving $1,000 awards ($100 per month from September through June) to over 115 students — at least one boy and one girl — in 57 local high schools.
This achievement is due to the incredible support we have received from individuals, organizations and businesses. What has attracted them? Three reasons, I think.
First, it’s a great cause. Graduating high school is not the final step but it opens the door to so many opportunities that aren’t there without a high school diploma. We know that we are helping many Ottawa students reach that goal.
Second, donors receive an annual report that contains a complete financial statement and excerpts from the recipients’ letters describing how the award has impacted their lives. Awards are going to young men and women who are often in dire straits. Donors can read the moving and uplifting letters that show they are making a real difference in someone’s life. For many of us, $100 is not a lot of money but, for these students, it makes a big difference, gives them hope for a future and allows them to feel “normal.”
Finally, every donation goes directly to a student. Donations are not used for administration; the volunteer board of directors pays those expenses. $100 to the Help Our Students Program is $100 to a student in need.
The recipients are selected by the high schools. They know best who is working hard to get through high school and who needs help getting by. Every school in Ottawa, regardless of location, has students who live in difficult financial circumstances.
Visit our website, www.Help OurStudentsProgram.com, and read the many letters we have received since 2010. You can make a donation either by cheque or online by making a one-time or monthly donation using your credit card or PayPal. Since the HOST Program is a registered Canadian charity (CRA 814474730 RR0001), you will receive an official receipt for tax purposes for every donation.
We now have a new dream: to keep helping at least one male and one female in every Ottawa high school. It’s a big dream.
At this time of year, helping students in need is a wonderful way to celebrate the true spirit of giving. Please visit our website and donate today. You’ll be helping someone make their dreams come true.