It's been a big week for students, staff and the parent Advisory Council (PAC) at Altona's Ecole Parkside School, with its fundraising coupon folder now available. Andrea Hildebrand is with the PAC, and one of the folks that's helping out with the launch of the folder. 

"We're very excited to launch our biggest coupon folder, yet," said PAC member Andrea Hildebrand. "It has about 25 coupons, the cost is only $20, and the money we raise supports the school's breakfast program, as well as upgrades to our outside space, which both students and community can take advantage of." 

Hildebrand noted they have been thrilled to welcome a considerable number of new businesses to the fundraiser.

"We have at least nine new coupons in the folder," she noted. "We have our longtime supporters that we're very grateful for, but it's really exciting to see new businesses that have come up over the last couple of years in the community."

Sales of the coupon folder have historically brought in between $8,000 and $10,000, which Hildebrand stressed is very significant for the school and its breakfast program and outdoor space.

"There's been opportunity recognized, and it's been supported by other programs as well, to have a program with easily accessible breakfast for all students," she explained, while also reflecting on recent improvements to the school's outdoor spaces supported by past coupon folder fundraisers. "With last year's program, we added some wooden structures and an outdoor classroom space. This year, we're going to be rebuilding some funds, because we missed a couple of years in the pandemic, and we'll go on to the next phase, which will be adding some boulders and making some seating spaces." 

Waiting too long to buy your coupon folder may not be the best idea, with only 400 printed and available this year.

Hildebrand anticipates in three weeks, or less, they will be sold out. Students will be canvassing town, selling the folders, but if they miss you, residents can also call the school at 204-324-8206 to buy one.

student outside door with coupon folderSubmitted by Courtney Friesen

Listen to CFAM Radio 950 Morning Show Co-Host Chris Sumner chat with Andrea Hildebrand, below.