(Sault Ste. Marie, ON September 20, 2023) – Sault College and the United Way of Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District are seeking applicants for the annual Trades Day of Caring. Taking place Saturday, October 28, 2023, the annual event provides an opportunity for Sault College trades students to assist seniors in the Sault Ste. Marie area with minor seasonal winterizing tasks.
Seniors in the SSM area who are interested in participating can contact the United Way at 705.256.7476 extension 0. Interested participants should contact the United Way no later than Friday, October 16, 2023. Applicants will be assessed and approved for this program based on need, as well as first come first serve.
With the supervision of Sault College instructors, trades students will be tasked with completing minor repairs to the residences of senior citizens residing in various households. These projects may encompass tasks such as caulking windows, applying weather stripping, sealing windows in preparation for winter, and comparable maintenance activities. Additionally, students will assist with outdoor upkeep, including tasks like raking and leaf collection, ensuring the closure of exterior faucets, and properly storing hoses for the winter season.
“This event is highly anticipated as it gives the students a chance to partner with the United Way and expand their learning outside the doors of Sault College and support our community,” says Marc Pilon, Professor/Coordinator of Civil Engineering and Construction at Sault College. “We are anticipating over 30 students participating this year, which will allow us to visit more homes and help more seniors as we head into the fall and winter season,” says Pilon.
Last year, 13 Sault College trades students volunteered their time and attended 17 different homes in Sault Ste. Marie to assist with repairs and ensure the homes as well as the owners were prepared for the coming winter. We look forward to achieving this and more this year.
“Trades Day of Caring exemplifies the synergy between education and compassion. With the strength of Sault College and the heart of United Way Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District, we are thrilled to join hands to help our most vulnerable seniors live comfortably in their home. Together, we can make a better tomorrow for everyone,” said Lori Huston, Executive Director, United Way Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District.
In addition to participating in this great community event, civil engineering and construction students will be working on community projects with ARCH Hospice, as well as An Evening at Hogwarts in support of the Sault Area Hospital Foundation this fall.
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