ISC giveaway helps students prepare for school year

In early September, close to one hundred students came through Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge for a free “shopping experience” designed to help them prepare for the school year. 

The Indigenous Student Centre (ISC), in partnership with the Access Program hosted the 2nd annual Back-to-School Giveaway for UM Indigenous and Access students. Held during the first week of school, this event offerstudents the opportunity to shop for free household items. 

“The giveaway made me feel like I am starting the year with the support of the Indigenous community on campus,” says Amari Dion-Hart, an Indigenous student at UM. “Starting off in a good way, I was able to grab some home necessities such as containers for lunches and dish soap – these are things that may seem small, but they go a long way!” 

UM Indigenous community and friends came together to support the event by donating gently used household items.  

Many students may not be able to bring all their belongings with them when they leave their home communities, which can leave their new homes in Winnipeg feeling lonely and empty. ISC wants to make a direct impact on students’ lives by letting them know that they are there to support them holistically during their academic journey.  

“The goal of the Giveaway is to help alleviate some of the financial stress that students may feel as they start the new academic year,” says Denise Proulx, ISC Student Advisor and Program Coordinator. The cost of coming to school can become expensive very quickly when considering groceries, clothing, household goods and school supplies – especially for those moving to the city for the first time.” 

Students who attended the event were invited to leave notes of gratitude and were entered to win a “Refresh Your Space” prize, which was generously donated by the Blankstein Momentum Program and Access Program.    

“I am grateful to the UM Indigenous community, our generous donors and the dedicated staff whose support made the giveaway possible,” says Proulx. “This initiative honours the Indigenous value of sharing abundance, reflecting our collective commitment to supporting students. We are proud to honour this tradition while also acting sustainably to protect Mother Earth. It’s heartwarming to see our community come together to offer not just essential items, but also a strong message of support and belonging.” 

Next year, ISC is planning to expand the Giveaway to give them the ability to reach more students and accept a larger amount of donations. 

Any remaining items were donated to Centre Flavie-Laurent.  

For questions on this initiative, please visit the front desk in Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge (114 Sidney Smith St., Fort Garry campus), call 204-474-8850 or email isc@umanitoba.ca. 

Chelsey Hill