By: Mike Su, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Since 2013, Noelle’s Gift to Children has been providing students in Sarnia-Lambton and Chatham-Kent with the essentials they need to succeed. Established in memory of Noelle Paquette, a passionate educator, the organization continues her legacy of kindness and generosity.
Noelle Paquette was known for going above and beyond for her students, ensuring they had meals, school supplies and proper clothing. Although her life was tragically cut short, her impact lives on through Noelle’s Gift, which has supported students for over a decade.
The organization offers a variety of programs aimed at helping students, including the Student Nutrition Program, which provides healthy snacks to support learning, and the Noelle’s Gift Closet Initiative, which stocks schools with essential items. Schools also have access to emergency funds for daily necessities, and all Grade 1 students receive a Noelle’s Gift water bottle to promote hydration and healthy habits. Additionally, Noelle’s Gift supports community initiatives such as family fun days and other student-focused programs.
Now, Noelle’s Gift to Children is expanding its presence in Chatham-Kent. Caress Lee has been named chairperson for the newly established Chatham-Kent chapter. A lifelong resident of Chatham-Kent and Public Relations officer for the Lambton Kent District School Board, Lee sees firsthand the impact Noelle’s Gift has on students.
“Although I was familiar with Noelle’s Gift to Children before my role with the LKDSB, I never truly understood the depth of its impact,” says Lee. “They are truly a lifeline for countless families across Chatham-Kent and Sarnia-Lambton, offering support when it’s needed most. The immediate, compassionate help provided to children and families, free from barriers, is nothing short of extraordinary. I am honoured to step into this role and know that the Chatham-Kent community will be supportive of such a vital cause.”
Joining Lee as co-chairperson is Leah Cabral, Supervisor of Communications and Community Relations for the St. Clair Catholic District School Board and associate professor at Lambton College. Cabral, a strong advocate for students, is committed to continuing Noelle’s mission.
“Noelle’s Gift to Children touches the lives of students in our schools every day, and I’m thrilled to be part of the team helping to extend that impact in Chatham-Kent,” says Cabral. “Every child deserves to feel supported and have what they need to thrive, and Noelle’s Gift makes that possible in such a meaningful way.”
To celebrate the expansion, Noelle’s Gift to Children will host its first-ever Chatham-Kent “Light up the Night for Noelle” Spring race. The event, set for Friday, April 25, at 7:30 p.m., will feature a 5KM run/walk and a 1KM kids’ race at Mud Creek Trail in Chatham, offering an exciting and inclusive event for all ages. All proceeds from the race will stay in Chatham-Kent to support local students through Noelle’s Gift.
Chatham-Kent residents are encouraged to stay tuned for more details and to help spread the word. For upcoming announcements, visit Noelle’s Gift website or follow them on social media.
