The
Royal Bank Hanmer Staff have been raising funds for over two years to
support a class of deaf blind children attending Notre Dame du Rosaire
School in Blezard Valley. Between now and Easter, the staff is once
again embarking on a special promotion to help with the purchase and
installation of a hot tub, which will benefit the children who are
confined to wheelchairs.
In
the photo, four of the staff members, from the left, Helene Savage,
Kelly McNicoll, Gisele Hamelin and Sue Page are helping add paper
‘bunnies’ to the tree which is located in the main banking area.
Patrons have been making donations in any amount of their choosing. With
each donation, their name is being added to a paper Easter Bunny which
is then hung on the special Easter Tree which has been planted as part
of an attractive display near the mall entrance. All names are being
entered into a draw for an Easter basket.
Teacher
Suzanne Fortin, of Notre Dame du Rosaire School, has created a specially
equipped room, called the Snoezelen room, for children with special
needs, and she has also developed a program for these children. There is
no government funding for the class and they need supplies and
equipment. The maintenance and equipment is very costly.
The
Snoezelen room has fibre optic lights, gentle vibration, tactile
sensations, music and aromatherapy. This room is used for the
development and day-to-day well being of the children. The Snoezelen
room is available to and is being used by children with special needs in
the Sudbury area from any school board.
The
Royal Bank Staff adopted Ms. Fortin and her Snoezelen Room as their
special project and have since held several fund-raising events during
each of the past two years. They have been overwhelmed with the support
that the public has shown in the early days of the campaign and know
that the children will be most appreciative when they see how much this
community cares about their well-being.
If
you would like to contribute to this worthy cause, simply drop in to the
Royal Bank at the Hanmer Valley Shopping Centre and pick up an Easter
Bunny.