Assisting Children and Families in Kingston

The Helen Tufts Child Outreach Program (HTCOP) is a partnership between students from Queen’s University, and Sydenham Street United Church.
The HTCOP program assists children, aged 6-13 to develop reading, numeracy and social skills. The children meet one on one with their Queen’s student mentor on Monday or Wednesday evening. Each of the approximately 40 children is matched with the same volunteer Queen’s student for that evening throughout the program year. Much of the time is spent working on reading skills or basic arithmetic, but the emphasis is on the idea that learning is fun. The evening also includes group activities, games, and a light supper.
The student volunteers participate in a thorough training program; Queen’s Alma Mater (AMS) provides an annual grant from an optional student activity fee. Our church donates without charge the facilities which are required for the program. Volunteers from our congregation serve as program coordinator, treasurer, and auditor. Transportation is provided for those families who require it.
Queen’s students continue to volunteer for the program and to petition for the funds to support it – these students are committed and with them the program continues to be a positive influence on young children.
To learn more about Helen Tufts, the person, go to Our Stories Section!
To get more information about the Helen Tufts Child Outreach Program, contact email: helen.tufts@sydenhamstreet.ca
Updated 2024 09 05