Since he joined The 196 Program two years ago, Ronaldo’s parents have seen him grow and thrive in ways they never imagined.
When Priya and Rakesh first enrolled their son Ronaldo in The 196 Program at Mission Services, they weren’t really sure what to expect. Two years later, they’re very glad they took that leap.
“Our nephew had done a similar program in the past, and one of Ronaldo’s friends was part of The 196. He told Ronaldo how much fun he was having,” Priya said.
“We wanted Ronaldo to have something else in his life other than just his regular school time,” Rakesh said. “With both of us working, it can be hard to juggle schedules, and we don’t want him to just have screen time, so this gets him out of the house.”
The 196 Program runs as an after-school program for kids in our community during the school year. It introduces them to practical life skills in an uplifting and positive environment. For the summer months, The 196 switches to a summer camp for kids whose parents are working during the day. It provides kids with activities, fun, and food.
Program leader Adalia says it’s important to have these types of programs in the community so that every child has the opportunity to learn and grow without barriers.
“Kids programs can be very expensive, but because of the generosity of our donors, we’re able to offer them at no cost. This makes such a difference.”
The 196 Program receives funding from the Hamilton Community Foundation’s ABACUS Fund, as well as support from our generous donors.
Summer camp with The 196 includes field trips and fun activities, as well as the opportunity to learn essential skills like cooking and sewing. The kids also develop personal skills like leadership and compassion.
“When Ronaldo first started coming in Grade 6, he was on the quieter side, but in the past two years, we’ve seen him grow to be a positive influence on the other kids and become viewed as a leader,”
Adalia said. “Seeing growth in each of the kids is so rewarding, and makes the time and effort we invest in them so worthwhile.”
Priya echoed that statement, saying how wonderful it is to see Ronaldo putting the new skills and lessons he’s learned at The 196 Program into practice at home and at school.
“The other day, he had a rip in his pants, and he asked me if he could sew them up. He’d learned how to sew in this program, and wanted to try it himself. He’s also learned the basics of how to cook, and he likes the food that he makes in Mini Chefs better than any other food.”
Soon, Ronaldo will be graduating from The 196 Program and moving up to The 196+, Mission Services’ program for high-schoolers, and his younger brother will be taking his place in The 196 Program. Rakesh is glad to know that there is a place that he can trust for both of his children.
“It’s safe and secure, Adalia treats all the kids like they are her own kids, and we’ve seen incredible growth in Ronaldo. His younger brother asks every day when it can be his turn to join the fun.”
