TISS Treasure Chest Receives $11K Grant from 100 Women Who Care

Brockville – The Thousand Islands Secondary School (TISS) Treasure Chest has received a generous $11,700 grant from 100 Women Who Care – Thousand Islands. This funding will ensure the continued success of the student-led initiative that provides essential resources such as food, clothing, and hygiene products to students who need them.

In February 2024, a group of students, accompanied by organizing teacher Kelleyanne Mackenzie, pitched the Treasure Chest program to the 100 Women Who Care chapter. Although they were not successful at that time, the lasting impact of their presentation earned the Treasure Chest another opportunity to pitch this semester. In early September, Mackenzie went solo to represent the program, as it was too early in the semester for the students to attend. Her compelling presentation, rooted in the original student-led pitch, led to the selection of the Treasure Chest as this section’s grant recipient.

The TISS Treasure Chest was formed last school year as a response to student concerns about poverty and lack of access to necessities within their community. The initiative began in Grade 10 English class, where students were inspired by the novel Tex, which tells the story of two brothers living in poverty. Moved by the realization that some of their peers could be facing similar challenges, the students sought ways to help reduce barriers for those in need at TISS.

Since then, the Treasure Chest has grown significantly, with students volunteering their time during lunch, after school and on weekends to manage the program. They have developed innovative approaches to engage the community, driving donations and ensuring ongoing support for their peers. From hot lunches to everyday access to fresh fruit and snacks, the Treasure Chest provides a welcoming space for students to receive the help they need.

In addition to serving the TISS community, the Treasure Chest also supports Connect Youth Inc. by donating excess food and essentials, extending their impact beyond the school.

The recent donation from 100 Women Who Care will allow the Treasure Chest to expand its services, restocking shelves with food, clothing, and hygiene products, and maintaining the hot lunch program. “This donation ensures our program can continue providing vital support to students,” said Mackenzie Lennox, Grade 12 student and Treasure Chest volunteer. “It’s really important that everyone feels included and has access to what they need.”

“I’m so appreciative and grateful that this opportunity came from the students. They needed a teacher to make it happen, and Ms. Mackenzie made that possible,” said TISS Principal Laura Oliver. “Our board’s mission is to prepare students for a successful life, but these students are already living it. They’re making a great contribution, not just to the school but to the community beyond. Volunteering is a lifelong activity, and giving back feels just as good as when someone gives to you.”