A donation from Caesars Windsor Cares will help kids in low-income neighbourhoods succeed in school.
The Ignite Academy Parent Engagement Program got a cheque for $20,000 on Tuesday.
While it provides elementary school children in Downtown Windsor, West Windsor, and Leamington with their school work and a healthy meal, it also helps their parents and caregivers navigate the social services network.
Ignite Academy is part of the United Way Centraide Windsor-Essex County's Cradle to Career program.
"We know that locally, some kids are falling behind," read a release from the United Way and Caesars Windsor Cares. "The goal of Cradle to Career is to change the trajectory of local youth through education."
The academy program is offered four days a week at elementary schools in those neighbourhoods.
For the kids, it's an opportunity to meet with a mentor, access academic support, and participate in recreational activities. For their parents, there is informal peer-to-peer engagement, formal social support, and education and skill building.
"It is our honour to support their Cradle to Career program to increase a sense of belonging and connectedness among parents," said Caesars Windsor President Kevin Laforet.
Ignite Academy started last September at six schools in Windsor and Leamington, helping 360 students in grades 2 to 7.
