Both local schools boards are getting a big donation to help kids in need.

The Noelle’s Gift Foundation presented a cheque for $76,000 this afternoon to the Lambton-Kent and St. Clair Catholic District School Boards.

According to a recent statement from the Lambton-Kent District School Board,

The $76,000 donation from the Noelle’s Gift charitable fund is shared between the two school boards to support students and their families. The money is used to purchase essential items, such as eyeglasses, clothing, food, medicine and medical equipment. The funds are dispersed independently through the two school boards. Principals submit an application on behalf of the family in need and requests are processed quickly to ensure families receive support as soon as possible.

The Noelle’s Gift charitable fund was established in memory of Noelle Paquette, a former Kindergarten teacher with the St. Clair Catholic District School Board, who passed away in January 2013.

Jim Costello, Director of Education at the LKDSB, says the money will go a long way.

“We’re so grateful. This is now a number of years of continued support where money is provided from the Noelle’s Gift Foundation directly into schools. It allows our Principals very quickly and without a lot of fuss and paperwork to make a difference and buy materials and goods that are needed for students,” Costello says.

Deb Crawford, Director of Education at the St. Clair Catholic District School Board says carrying on Noelle’s memory is important.

“Noelle’s memory is held in such high esteem and her care for children is so recognized and continues to be recognized. Our staff at P.D. days, dress down days – everyone is in support of trying to build this Foundation because of the immediacy of the care that gives it kids. The response is quick, non-judgmental, and very comfortable for families, and we’re so grateful to be able to extend this care to our communities, and we’re so grateful to the Foundation for making this possible,” says Crawford.

The cheque presentation was earlier today in Wallaceburg.