Renaissance Group Children's Picnic - Neighbourhood Grant Story

The cooling breeze from the St-Lawrence River offset the August heat and it was perfect picnic weather for the children of Cornwall's east end. On this Saturday morning, the Aimé Leblanc Park was the spot for celebrating neighbourhood children.

Mr. Arnold Fobert, president of the Renaissance Association for/pour Residents, asked United Way of S. D. & G. for support through their Success By 6 Neighbourhood Grant Fund to put on their annual Children's Picnic. This 78 year-old engaged citizen, is making a strong case for the importance of having free community activities for children and has made significant contributions to the neighbourhood.

This is the 6th annual Children's Picnic for this neighbourhood and there is a flow of activities from all these people working together and everyone having fun. MamaWoof, a local entrepreneur, who offers entertainment services for children events, treated children to balloon sculptures. Wonderful volunteers happily greeted children and handed them teddy bears. More volunteers had their hands full with serving snacks and treats to families, who were out to spend time with their children and neighbours. Children were busy at the fishpond and the coloring table and doing what they do best - playing.

Cindy Stead, the volunteer Treasurer for the Renaissance Association for/pour Residents, talks to me about the organization of the picnic, she says that this type of event is important for every neighbourhood and that their message is "You are kids and you are special".

Special guests came out for the Children's Annual Picnic. Police officers were present and participated in the day. Mr. Fobert announced over the loud speaker that Mayor Phil Poirier was available to discuss "Any complaints ¡­and compliments".

This fun-filled neighbourhood event attracted 71 children of all ages and their parents. This is a wonderful example of people coming together to support children and families.

For further information about:
The Renaissance Association for/pour Residents, please contact Arnold Fobert at 613-933-2650.
United Way of S.D. & G.- Success By 6, please contact Dinah Ener at 613-932-4374.

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