Union Gas’ Commitment to Aboriginal Communities in Ontario:

Working Together to Promote Literacy among First Nations

February, 2009 - Over 1,800 books were collected and delivered to First Nations communities.

The Leadership Development Network (LDN) book club, a Union Gas employee volunteer group dedicated to enhancing literacy, held their second annual book drive across Union Gas to collect books for three First Nation communities - Chippewas of Kettle & Stoney Point, The Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation and Ketegaunseebee Garden River First Nation.

Through this initiative, the club is working to help promote basic literacy skills among aboriginal youth.

We feel it’s important that children discover the joys of reading early on and be provided the opportunity to enjoy books every day," said John Bonin, Manager of Aboriginal Relations. “Unfortunately not all children have the access to books they need to succeed. We hope that through this donation, we can spread the joy of reading by putting more books into the hands of children.”

“These books are much appreciated,” said Principal Sandra Graham from New Credit’s Lloyd S. King School.  “The kids are going to love these books.  A big thank you to Union Gas.”

A variety of English, French and Micmac books for Grades K-8 were donated, along with children's magazines, audio and video tapes, DVDs and reference material for teachers. Monetary donations also enabled the committee to purchase a number of books that specialize in aboriginal language and culture from Good Minds bookstore in Brantford, Mohawk and Ojibway Publishers.