The Chen family arrived in Peterborough as newcomers to Canada with two school-age children — Mei (grade 5) and Jun (grade 2). Neither child spoke fluent English, and the family was navigating a new country on a very tight budget.
Their school's settlement worker connected them with TFKF. The foundation provided both children with complete school supply kits, enrolled Mei in an after-school tutoring program, and registered Jun for a swimming class at the community centre.
Over the following months, TFKF continued to check in. They covered the cost of a summer day camp and provided back-to-school supplies in September. Both children flourished.
"In China, we say it takes a village," Mrs. Chen shared through a translator. "Peterborough became our village, and Teachers for Kids was the first door that opened."