Igloolik, Nunavut Northern Teacher Inspires Winter Clothing Support for Students

750 Children and Youth to Receive Gift of Warmth

TORONTO, Sept. 16, 2021 /CNW/ - A collaborative effort is underway to support children and youth in the Nunavut community of Igloolik. Igloolik-based Grade 4 teacher Colleen Chau reached out to The Salvation Army Alberta and Northern Territories Division and set in motion a plan that will see hundreds of children and youth outfitted for the upcoming winter season. Joe Fresh of Loblaw Companies Limited will generously supply warm winter clothing. The extensive list includes jackets, pants, hats, mittens, boots and even backpacks for school. Canadian mining company Baffinland Iron Mines is uniquely positioned within the region to support and is providing transportation of the donated supplies to Igloolik.    

"I wanted to do something to help the children in my class and their families," says Colleen Chau, who teaches at Ataguttaaluk Elementary School. "I'm thrilled that what started as a small project has grown into something I never could have imagined; the children will be so happy."

In a region where temperatures can dip to nearly -40 C, winter clothing is a necessity that no child should have to go without. As in all Canadian communities, the worldwide pandemic has added unforeseen challenges that often stretch household finances. This project will help ease the burden of additional costs associated with outfitting kids for the winter season.

"We are honoured to be a part of this initiative, working with The Salvation Army and Baffinland to support the students, families and teachers in Igloolik," says Lindsay Cook, Vice-President Marketing and Communications for Joe Fresh. "This is an incredibly unique opportunity, where we know our involvement can make a meaningful difference in the community."

"When need is presented, our organizational instinct is to do everything we can to come alongside the communities and people we serve," says Major Margaret McLeod of The Salvation Army. "In this case, it was evident from the start that The Salvation Army would require assistance with this project. We're thankful that Colleen reached out to us for help and equally grateful for the support of our friends at Joe Fresh and Baffinland."

The logistics and costs associated with transporting eight pallets of winter gear and other supplies seemed impossible until Baffinland offered their support and expertise to ship the items to the remote community, which is located on Baffin Island and where many Baffinland workers call home.  

"Baffinland is committed to supporting initiatives that benefit the communities in North Baffin," says Brian Penney, CEO of Baffinland Iron Mines. "The Salvation Army and Joe Fresh have come together to generously provide these supplies to the youth in Igloolik and we are honoured we could do our part as well."

About The Salvation Army:
As the largest non-government direct provider of social services in the country, The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and every day in 400 communities across Canada. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life. 

About Joe Fresh Loblaw Companies Limited: 
Essential Style. Exceptional Value. Founded in 2006, Joe Fresh offers accessible, modern design in lifestyle collections for women, men and children. Today one of Canada's leading fashion retailers, Joe Fresh brings a contemporary point of view to everyday wardrobe favourites full of colour, polish and thoughtful details. In categories spanning apparel, accessories, footwear and beauty, Joe Fresh provides quality and style for the entire family. In Canada, Joe Fresh products are available in more than 1,450 retail locations; including over 350 Loblaw locations, 1,300 Shoppers Drug Mart locations, 11 freestanding Joe Fresh stores and JoeFresh.com. Joe Fresh is also available internationally through local partners in the United States. For more information, please visit joefresh.com.

About Baffinland:
Baffinland Iron Mines Corporation (Baffinland) is a Canadian mining company that operates one of the northernmost mines in the world, the Mary River Mine, in the Qikiqtani region of North Baffin, Nunavut, Canada. It is jointly owned by The Energy and Minerals Group and ArcelorMittal and produces the highest grade of direct shipping iron ore in the world. Baffinland is committed to operating the Mary River Mine in an environmentally and socially responsible manner that benefits all stakeholders.

SOURCE The Salvation Army