June 2016

I am writing to you to thank you for everything you have done for me. The past two years have gone well.  I wanted to let you know that you have helped me to change my life. Over the past two years, my study skills have improved and I have been able to make use of educational tools such as a laptop. 

Before being selected in this program my life wasn’t easy at all.  I walked to school every day but now I have managed to buy a bike which I use in the summer with the money which you send to me every month. This past winter wasn’t easy at all for me, since I am living on my own without help from the family.  I had to start paying rent for the house, had to pay the phone and internet bill, and buy food.  The money you send every month has helped me with pay for my daily needs.

I am grateful to have met you because these past two years of high school have gone so smoothly. Your support has been extremely helpful and I would not have been able to do it without your help and encouragement. If I did not have this chance of having $100 every month my life would be a lot harder since I was unemployed during the winter.

Sometimes life can be hard when you don’t have the money to support yourself, your needs, and even your wants. These days all my class work and homework are done on my chromebook which I bought with the help from the money you sent. I did not know that I would have this chance one day to have the Host Program in my high school. I now have the confidence that one day I will be able to achieve all of my dreams and goals.

Helping poor families and young children who are lacking education in Africa and building schools is one future goal of mine. I found out that helping people, younger and older, is the only way I can pay back all of the good things which I had in my life.

I am very appreciative for all of the help that your program has given me.  I know that you help many others in the same way and I respect that a great deal. Your work is helping us and I wish you continued success.

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I am currently in grade 12 and am graduating in June next year. As a student whose family has been undergoing financial difficulty, with this program, my family and I has been able to have enough to eat.  Of the $100 that I receive from the HOST Program, I have used some of it for food at home which helped me a lot in my academics because I did not have to worry about what my siblings will have to take for lunch at school or eat at home since neither of my parents had jobs. It also helped me to continue saving for my education after I graduate since I did not have to use the little that I get from my recent job to give it to my parents. I was also able to use this money to pay for important field trips at school and for sports tournaments, because I love sports, mostly rugby. This money has not only been a great help to me but also for my parents and 10 siblings.  Since I started receiving this money I have been able to carry a lunch pack for myself because I know that my young brothers and sisters at least have enough to eat. I remember once I had borrowed $150 from a friend because that day we had nothing to eat.  This might seem too much but for a family of 13 people this was only enough for a week. As soon as I had my first deposit I used it to pay back the debt because it is not good to stay in debt because it does not allow you to move forward, and all the thanks goes to HOST Program for this opportunity.

This money offered to many students like me assists us in pursuing our career goals and helps us feel that there are people out there who think and care about us besides our families. This push me to study even harder so that I can be able to do the same thing for other students in the future.  I am glad that I was chosen as the lucky student. Thank you for making the HOST Program possible, I will never forget the generosity extended to me!

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Thank you and everyone from the program for all that you have given me these past two years. It has been a long road and I still have much ahead of me and I’m excited for what comes next.  With the generous donations from this program I have been able to take part in things I never thought I would, such as playing football for my school, which was one of the greatest character building experiences I have ever had. I also was able to go on various school trips, have been able to pay for my graduation expenses and even used some money for special occasions such as birthdays, Father’s/Mother’s days and Christmas, so that I could give back to a family that has given me everything. I also have been working over these two years and being able to have an account to dip into for these sorts of expenses has made saving money for college that much easier. For most of my life I never thought I would be going to post-secondary or that I would have moved out and working full time before I thought about being able to pay for a college education to further my career. With support from your program and family and friends, I have been working hard and have been able to save enough money to pay for my first year of college and have big plans for the future ahead. Thank you again, I can’t stress how grateful I am for being chosen for this amazing program, and I hope it continues to bring smiles to the faces of many kids for years to come.

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There are so many things that could have turned out differently for me in my senior year. I am finally finished my high school career and I feel more confident and prepared for the next step of my life. My reasoning is because I was blessed with many great opportunities that only happened because of this program. I spent some of my money on professional and interview appropriate clothes, and through this I was able to get a summer job. I was also able to go to my school prom and it blew me away how expensive everything could be. The rides, the dresses, the ticket cost, etc.  With the help of the Host Program I was able to attend prom and enjoy a fun night with my friends. Normally these things are not an option for me. To be able to buy quality clothes and find a large sum of money for an expensive prom. In the end, I was able to feel normal at my school among my peers. I was able to be a part of school events that required you to spend money. I felt like I could focus on my education because the distraction of finding a way to pay for things was solved. I am eternally grateful for being a part of this program and the personal benefits they have granted me.

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I had my graduation ceremony yesterday, which gave me some time to reflect on this past school year along with my accomplishments. It also gave me time to think about my upcoming school year, and how thankful I am to be receiving the thousand dollars to help pay for my schooling and books. Next year, I'm going to Carleton University.  With the money from the HOST program, I'll be able to pay for my textbooks in these classes, which I am incredibly thankful for. The HOST program has definitely alleviated some financial stress from my family and me, and has made pursuing post secondary a lot easier. With the small scholarship I received, OSAP, the HOST program, and working part time on the side, it looks like my first year is almost entirely covered, which means so much to me!!! I'm so excited to go to university, and I'm so thankful that you've taken the time and effort help me achieve my goal. I'm also thankful that my hard work in classes was recognized and appreciated, and makes me want to continue striving for excellence both in my post-secondary and my life.

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The Host Program has made a huge impact in my life, it's allowed me to cover costs around the house, everything from small bills to groceries. It's given me a certain freedom as well, whereas in the past I had little to no spending money for any sort of hobby since then I've picked a few. And they have in turn helped both my mental health and physical. It's been a life changing experience. The Host Program is to me has been a great help in my life. I'd like to thank everyone involved in the program it's truly been a pleasure. 

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How can I say thank you from the bottom of my heart, for being picked for this Host Program? All I can say is Thank you. It has done so much for me and my family this year. It saved my mom trying to save money for a bus pass for me, because I bought myself bus tickets to get to school. I was able to get haircuts, games, give my mom money. It has helped more than you know.

I wish there could be more kids who could be picked for this bursary each year. There are lots of kids out there whose families have a very tough time financially like my family, and something like this could give a kid the boost he needs to stay in school. I wish there was a way to help more kids like me each year for this program!

You are an amazing man Mr. Lussier and your father is a very wise man. Even $100.00 to me is a lot but it got me through each month and it felt good to have my own money and not have to bug my mom for money here and there. 

I have one more year left of school then off to College or University, taking courses to be a youth counselor, or social worker. This bursary has given me goals and hopes and dreams about my future. So thank you from the bottom of my heart, and my mom's heart.

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Thank you again for providing me with $100.00 every month from your fantastic HOST Program! The money has helped my dad and I very much.  For example, we spend most of the money on groceries and clothing.  I was able to buy myself a new pair of basketball shoes, which I desperately needed, so I could play on the basketball team in my school.  My dad is very thankful and appreciative of the money in that we have been able to buy some groceries that we wouldn't typically be able to do.

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I am really thankful to all the people who are hosting this great program to help students like me to finish our high school. The money I received from the program helped me to have more food on my table and also motivated me to continue my studies. Again thanks to all of you and also thanks for being so kind to me. 

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This award impacts me a lot and means a lot to me. The award helps me with school and helps me get through the month by buying food with the money you have provided me.  When I am getting your money, it helps me more than you think so I don’t have to work as much.  I hope this award keeps coming to me so I can benefit from it.  My family is also happy that I am getting this award from you so I don’t have to ask my parents for money as it is short.  My parents would like to give you a big thanks.

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I want to thank you guys for being so generous! You are the kind of people that make a difference and impact people lives. This program has made my last year of high school a better experience for me. I was able to go on school trips I only dreamed of going on before because some trips are expensive. This has given me a different outlook on how a bit of support can change a student’s life! I cannot begin to express how thankful I am for your help.

* * *

I would like to start by thanking everyone in the HOST program for their generosity and everything that you do.  It is amazing how many people are willing to help you out in times of need when you reach out to them.  The money that you have given me has helped me in making this year an eventful and memorable one, and has taken much of the stress off of being a grade 12 student.  I spent the money mostly on food and clothes to wear.  I also spent some of the money on medical supplies (for example, a blood-pressure cuff and shears — to practice with for when I become a First Responder on campus next year.)  The rest of the money I spent on miscellaneous things, like bus tickets.  I have also bought a used bike, which is pretty helpful for someone who has to run a lot of errands.

It’s really a great feeling, when you don’t necessarily have to worry about the price of something before getting it.  The support of this program has allowed me to have a happy and worry-free final year, despite all the struggles and stress of being in grade 12.  I was inclined to get a job this year, but with the help of this program, I didn’t have to, and was able to spent my free time volunteering in the community as a first aider, as well as participating in extra-curriculars in school, two things which have made this year a very worthwhile one to live.

I really appreciate all the wonderful things that the HOST program has done for me.   I would also like to thank all of the wonderful people that choose to donate and help students in need.  I will never forget this amazing opportunity that has been granted to me, and I am forever indebted to the organizers of this program.  Thanks again, and I hope to be able to pay forward all the kindness that has been presented to me. 

* * *

The money I been receiving this school year has really helped me a lot to get through every month. With buying food when I need food or groceries for the house. I have been able to buy clothes when I needed it also helped me get my mom a nice Mother's Day present. I just want to thank the Host Program for making this happen. 

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Je vous envois ce courriel pour vous remercier pour cette bourse. Elle m`a aidé à acheter des diners de temps en temps avec mes amies, mais aussi pour acheter des outils pour la coiffure; ses vraiment un carrière que je veux atteindre dans le futur. Et je pense que l`année prochaine je vais prendre un cours en coiffure.  Cette bourse m`a aussi fait penser à mettre de l’argent de coter pour ma journée de graduation à la fin de l'année.

Merci encore une fois.

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I just want to thank you for choosing me for the Host Program this year. ! I have used the money to live (buy clothing, food, etc.). I was definitely lucky to be a part of the Host Program and will remember this for days to come.

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I want to say thank you for another amazing year thanks to this money. It helped me a lot because I didn't live at home for a while and this little bit of money helped me eat and bus places. I also used it to expand my art supplies and things I needed for school. You have helped me more than you'll probably ever understand. I came out as gender fluid in the past year and this money also helped me rebuild my wardrobe for clothes I feel comfortable in and chest binders.

* * *

This year, the Host Program has helped me pay for all of my prom stuff, my graduation fees, and even my deposit for college. I've never been so appreciative as to end my high school career with such a positive outlook on the last 4 years of my life. The Host Program has been a huge help to me and my family and I can only hope that it's changed others’ lives like it changed mine. It has not only helped me financially but also with growing and developing myself and being sympathetic with others who may be in need. 

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When I first met you said you received money to help you in your time of need. I now can proudly say I feel as you might have on that day. I finally understand what it means to be grateful again. The simple fact is that the $1000 aided me in accomplishing things I really wanted to do. Since we last talked I have been to New York City, seen the Empire State Building, sat in Central Park, and enjoyed the skyline from the Top of the Rockefeller Center. All this was because of the money that you graced me with. There are ups and downs in life. And I have now experienced both. I implore you continue this endeavor to help people like me. It was the greatest thing about my entire school year as a Grade 11.

I want to thank-you so very much for being there to do this. And I was not anything special; for all you knew at the beginning I was a name. Just a recommendation for this money to go to. But now I feel as if there is still good people in this world lending a hand where they can. Ready to assist the ones who can't assist themselves. Ready to work harder so those who always do; can work easier. Ready to help. Thank You for Everything

* * *

Hope all is well with you and Help Our Students Program team.  I first heard about your program when you came to my school and met with me for the first time. I have been receiving $100 since then. I wanted to write this and thank you for everything you guys have done for me. The money has help me in so many ways. I was able to work hard and make everyone proud including you guys who had my back.  Even though I don't see you all the time, your generosity has really influenced me in a positive way. I am graduating in June and I will be attending Carleton university next year. I thank God that he was able to bless other children like myself with people like you. Once again Thank so much from the bottom of my heart.

* * *

Thank you very much for what you have given me and my family. You have been generous enough for the past two years in helping my family financially, and it has certainly helped us in every little and big ways. What you've done has relieved my parents a lot, from paying the groceries to giving little treats to my siblings. I'm sure many are grateful for what you’re doing, you are not just helping others, but inspiring them as well. I will certainly double my effort in doing well in school so that what you have given me will not go to waste. I hope that your organization grows successfully and wish you both good health. Thank you so much for this monetary gift and wish you a very happy summer. Thank you!

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I would like to extend a final thanks for everything you have done over the past two years. The small monthly payments have helped start off a savings fund for my post-secondary education and have taught me how to better save and budget. I now have two part-time jobs that I will continue to pursue to continue saving, but without your kick start, I wouldn't be where I am today. I hope to continue to help support my family as well as myself, and take this as a learning opportunity as it taught me to be wiser with money and more thankful for even the smallest things in my life. Thank you for everything once again.

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The HOST Program has helped me in so many ways that I could write a whole story and still have so many things to say in thanks. The people at the HOST Program are completely selfless and care for others more than themselves. I feel so grateful that there are still people around that care so much for the well-being of others and give to them what they themselves wished to have when they were in need. The HOST Program is the shining light for people like me who do not have much and wish to be able to do what they dreamed of; whether it be helping others or looking after yourself for a change. Once again I am truly grateful for all that has been given to me. Thank you.

* * *

The last few months, I saved up my money and bought a new phone and saved for college. Without this money, I wouldn't be able to have as much of a choice as how much I put away for college this year. Thank you so much for the money and I really appreciate it.

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I would like to thank you once again for your continued support over the last two school years. Your support has provided me with numerous opportunities I wouldn't have been able to experience had it not been for the generosity of the program. I am looking forward to what the future holds thanks to you.

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Je t`écris aujourd`hui pour te remercier pour les argents que tu m`as envoyer, Ça m`a vraiment beaucoup aider dans ce moment ci. Cet argent m`a permis d`acheter de la nourriture pour mettre à la maison quand mon père n`a pas d`argent. Je me suis acheter des nouveaux survêtements, des décorations pour ma chambre. Avec cet argent, j`ai aussi donner une grande surprise à ma meilleur amie pour son anniversaire et j`ai aidé mon frère a payer l`internet à la maison. Je te remercie beaucoup pour toutes ces choses que tu m`as permis d`accomplir.

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Just wanted to give you an update since it has been a while since I last checked in! Luckily I have a lot to talk about since a lot has happened since we last talked! I used some of the money you so generously gave to me to go to a band trip in Spain! I really wanted to just be able to enjoy my last year and be a kid and not have to worry about money all the time. I really got the experience of a life time. We went to Barcelona, Madrid and Lloret de Mar. During the day, we took trips to little cities around the main cities and saw so much culture and history. The rest of the money I've been using for my university fund! I've committed to UOttawa for a PsychBSc. I'm really excited for what the future holds and I'm forever indebted to you for this opportunity. Thank you so much for your continued generosity.

* * *

I once again have to express my thanks to you and all the people involved in the HOST Program. This program was a big surprise to me, to say the least, and I am very happy and grateful because of your help.

The money donated has allowed me to buy a notebook for university purposes. Because I'll be pursuing a career in English literature, I'll be busy with writing essays and things like that. A notebook will be very useful for that, and it's because of your program that I can prepare for university.

I'm sure that what your program does helps a lot of students in these matters. Once again, I thank you for your help and all the people involved.

* * *

I'm speechless for your help and efforts, this year is my last year in high school and I'm going to study software engineering at Carleton next year. Your money had helped me more than what you think.  I made it to the end with your help! I was lucky to have an organization like yours to support my financial needs and my needs as a teenager and as a student in high school. It also helped me not to feel bad about me not buying food if I didn't get food from home, with my family's needs it was harder for me to have money for my daily life but with your help and efforts it helped me a lot!

Thank you a lot for everything, I really can't thank you enough, I hope you keep going and encouraging other students who are in need.

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The money is mainly used to aid me purchasing books for my university studies. Money is tight and the contributions made are helping me greatly.

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I am very grateful for the financial help you have given me during this year of high school. Being at grade twelve there is a lot of charging for example: Grade Fees, Prom Ceremony, paying $90 for applying to college and then paying $500 for the entrance to the program. Affording these costs would have been difficult for my mother because she doesn't work. Thank you again for giving me a bursary for this first session in college. As a Catholic Graduate student, graduating from high school gives me strength to work higher and be successful in my upcoming studies.

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These donations have helped me so much this year I can’t thank you enough. I've tried to save the money for my tuition but the overwhelming fees that I've had to pay by the end of this year have been crazy. These funds helped me pay for a ticket to go to Toronto for my school open house.  They also helped me pay for my $500 fee for college as well as my prom ticket. At first I thought that I wouldn’t need much money and I could save up for my tuition but the fees have just been coming out of nowhere and if I didn’t have these funds from you I think I'd be struggling so much more. So thank you so much for your help I really appreciate it.

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Thank you so much for providing me this gift of $100 every month for the past year. It has really helped me cut down my hours at Tim Horton's and spend more time with my mom and sisters. Not to mention that it has helped me pay for a bus pass every month so that I could go to school and work. So thank you again for this amazing opportunity.

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hostprogram@rogers.com    © RICHARD LUSSIER 2016