A local business has partnered with the Ministry of Children and Family Development to create a discount program for 275 local foster families working on a tight household budget, and is participating in other charitable endeavours.
Once Upon a Child Abbotsford, which buys and sells gently used kids’ items, donates clothing, toys and equipment on a weekly basis to Abbotsford Bibles for Missions Society and MCC (Mennonite Central Committee) Abbotsford.
It also donates items to Women’s Resource Society of the Fraser Valley and is in the process of creating a program to offer assistance to women and children who have experienced violent situations.
Once Upon a Child also participates in Abbotsford Works, a program where individuals with disabilities can obtain training and work experience.
The business also sponsored and funded a radio campaign fundraiser on behalf of the Meadow Rose Society of Chilliwack and Abbotsford. The organization works to support children in poverty under the age of three.
Once Upon a Child was opened in Abbotsford a year ago by Kevin and Sara Allan.
“From the beginning, it has been important for us to establish relationships throughout the local community to support government programs and independent charities,” Kevin said.