BY: KOMAL BIALA

For 24 years, the All Nations International Development Agency (ANIDA) has been committed to making a difference in the Downsview community, and internationally. ANIDA’s goal is to empower underprivileged communities by removing obstacles that prevent children from accessing education. ANIDA also provides resources needed for students to have a promising and fulfilling school year.

Along with this, and with the support of the Downsview Community, ANIDA is utilizing their previous experience in the Summer Book Topia Program, Read and Feed, as well as their current event, The Backpack Drive to break future barriers in assisting the community with what’s needed.

The Backpack Drive initiative has been active for two years, providing students with backpacks filled with back-to-school necessities like notebooks, pencils and erasers. ANIDA understands the financial distress many families have been facing over this pandemic and strives to take the weight off their shoulders by providing as much help as possible.

Starting September 1st, up until when school begins, they aim to give away 150+ backpacks to children of all ages. ANIDA strives to continue this event in the upcoming years, and are excited to introduce new events in this community! ANIDA is extremely vocal about supporting each other because we can bring more happiness, peace, and provide more assistance as a team and as a community. If you are interested in what ANIDA is doing and want to support their organization, check out their social media platform @anidaorg or through their website, www.anida.org!