Fair Start for Kids

FAIRSTART removes the stigma that surrounds poverty by providing children with back to school supplies, a new backpack, running shoes and healthy snacks. As kids go back to school this September, we want to make sure that them and their families are set up to have a great school year! Families will spend nearly $400 on school supplies this year. For many families, this is extremely difficult. As kids go back to school this September, we want to make sure that them and their families are set up to have a great school year!

To support our program and sponsor a child please click on the link below.

LOOKING TO REGISTER YOUR CHILD FOR A BACK-TO-SCHOOL-KIT?

Registration for families is complete as of July 30, 2021.

If you are registered and have not yet received your appointment time, please call Guest Services at 250-953-1588.

If you have not registered here or at any other agency, please come to the Mustard Seed starting Monday, August 30.  We will provide you with school supplies as available at that time and continue until the first week of school while supplies last.

Please note the ID for the parent and all registered children is needed when picking up.

Please do not hesitate to contact us directly if you have questions about Fairstart.

Wishing all students a great school year!

HOW TO SUPPORT FAIR START

This August, 400 deserving children (Kindergarten to Grade 12) will take home a Fair Start kit–providing school supplies and clothing for the start of classes. Each ‘back-to-school’ kits has an average cost of $30, depending on the child’s age.

Financial support designated for Fair Start is greatly appreciated and helps us with the cost of the kits ordered through Monk Office Supply. Every Fair Start kit is grade and age specific, following supply lists provided within the School District.

Want to donate? The Mustard Seed will also be accepting NEW clothing, NEW shoes (especially for pre/teens), and NEW backpack donations at 625 Queens Ave. 

Learn how you can become a corporate Sponsor as part of The Mustard Seed’s “Back to School” Campaign. 

How did Fair Start begin?

Linda Matthews and her late mother Vera Webb started the Fair Start Program in 1998, with an aim of ensuring children a fair start at their school year.  A partnership with The Mustard Seed was established to bridge the connection between this program and the families who will benefit from this support.

Since 1998, Fair Start for Kids has evolved, now serving hundreds of children in greater Victoria; giving them the confidence they need to start a new school year. The Mustard Seed is grateful for the generous support of Monk Office, who helps make this program possible.