To date, the BEF has utilized grant funding to assist with ACEs (adverse childhood experiences) training and supporting our students in building resilience. We recognize secondary trauma is also a concern as staff process the trauma their students endure. One of the strategies to support youth is a program called Biddeford 365 – a vacation/summer camp providing youth an environment for healing from and building resilience around ACEs to break the stranglehold of trauma. In partnership with the schools, a safe environment with positive, long-lasting experiences and interactive programming will be offered for underprivileged youth.
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Investing in tomorrow's future today!
WHAT WE DO:
Supporting the Whole Child
Trauma/ACEs/Biddeford 365
Backpack Program & Kids in Need
Homelessness and food insecurity continue to be barriers for many of our students. In partnership with YouthFull Maine, Good Shepherd Food Bank, Apex, and many generous community partners, the Foundation helps support students' hunger needs through our Backpack program. In addition, the Foundation's Relief Fund purchases clothing, books, and personal hygiene products, and staff assist families in identifying resources to aid in securing affordable housing.
Teacher Mini-Grants
The Foundation continues to support teacher mini-grants allowing educators to think outside the box for innovative learning opportunities that would otherwise not be covered in the normal school budget. To date, the BEF has supported $15,321 in teacher mini-grants. To learn more click here.
Fundraisers
All fundraisers will support the above priority areas. As we are in the planning phase, please check back often to learn about new events and opportunities.
Pillars of Pride:
The inaugural Pillars of Pride dinner and silent auction was held on October 29, 2016. Each year, at Pillars of Pride, the Biddeford Education Foundation will honor and recognize two community partners who have been longtime contributors of time, talent, and treasure toward the Biddeford School Department and signify pride in this community. Support may be for K-12 schools, the Regional Center of Technology, or athletic programs, and it must have made a positive impact on our school community. In addition to recognizing our community partners, this annual event is the primary fundraiser for the Foundation.
To secure tickets for the sixth annual Pillars of Pride please click here.
Education Foundation Fund:
Donors may choose to donate to the Education Foundation Fund. Funds received will go to support all identified priory areas. A donor to this fund also has the option to select a specific area to support.
Memorial Funds:
Families may choose to establish memorial funds as a tribute to their loved ones. The funds may be designated to a specific program or where the need is greatest to support students in need.
Congratulations to our Pillars of Pride
2022 ~ Denise D'Entremont & Apex Youth Connection
2019 ~ Ron Cote & Robert Hodge
2018 ~ Dana Peck & Sarah Jane Poli
2017 ~ Lou Chantigny & Bonita Pothier
2016 ~ Roland Eon & Jim Godbout
Contact Us:
Shelley Kane, Foundation President ~ 18 Maplewood Avenue, Biddeford ME, 04005 ~ 207.391.6885 ~ skane@biddefordschools.me