St. Catharines, ON – Lincoln McGuire with the support of his parents, Tamara and Brandon, are on a mission to create over 200 kits for refugee children coming to Niagara. These families had to leave everything behind upon fleeing from the Ukraine and Afghanistan.
Lincoln Cares Kits are all about filling the dream of a local youth who has always wanted to help the less fortunate. His dream began to come true on his 10th birthday, where he donated all his birthday money to support individuals living on the streets. After seeing some of the faces of those he was helping, Lincoln realized he wanted to do so much more. Lincoln Cares Kits are filled with essential items, as well as compassion, hope and love. Lincoln says it best, “I just love people, and I want all people to live long and happy lives”.
In a recent meeting, Big Brothers Big Sisters of North and West Niagara (BBBSNWN) staff discussed current world events and how the agency could support refugee children and their families coming to Canada. As a short-term solution, supporting Lincolns Cares Kits made for the perfect partnership. BBBSNWN was able to pull together books, colouring books, toys, and other items to assist in filling the kits.
This past weekend, Lincoln Cares Kits hit a milestone of having 14,825 items with the support of donations by friends, family, businesses, and BBBSNWN. Lincoln Cares Kits continue to adapt their focus to respond and align with current needs within our community.
“We look forward to supporting children and families who are refugees further once they are settled in Canada. Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs are uniquely designed to help young people, especially those at risk, to reach their full potential”, says Erin Graybiel, Executive Director at BBBSNWN.
BBBSNWN relies on community support to offer life-changing mentoring services to young people who need it most. The BBBS Bowl for Kids’ Sake event is coming up on April 30th and May 3rd at the Parkway Social in St. Catharines. Businesses, organizations, and families are encouraged to participate in this fun event in support of BBBSNWN programs and services. For further information visit www.bbbsmentors.ca.
Attached are photos from this past weekend where close to 240 Lincoln Care Kits were packed at the BBBSNWN office at 428 Niagara Street, St.Catharines.