December 20, 2013
Happy Holidays from the University of Waterloo
Staff member recognized for community outreach. Most campus departments close December 24, reopen January 2 to prepare for the winter term
The University of Waterloo will close for the holidays on December 23, 2013 and reopen on January 2, 2014.
The University prides itself on its strong connection to the community and this year two hundred children will experience the magic of the holiday season thanks to the generosity of the University of Waterloo campus community.
Staff, faculty and students from across campus donated gifts to more than 100 families through the University’s Children’s Christmas project.
Janet Metz, a student advisor with Co-operative Education, initiated the project when she reached out to a single family in need 26 years ago. Cooperative Education staff continue to be actively involved with this project, holding various events and fundraisers throughout the year.
Metz works directly with the Region of Waterloo to identify children through Region-run Home Child Care programs. The children receiving gifts come from families who work in low-income jobs and do not qualify for social assistance.
Metz was honoured recently by University of Waterloo President and Vice-Chancellor Feridun Hamdullahpur for her commitment to ensuring the success of the Children’s Christmas Project every year.
She has also involved her friends and family, both on and off campus, in this project. Her nephew and his friends help complete gift-wrapping for nearly 100 children.
Metz has also shopped for gifts herself and works tirelessly with Region of Waterloo staff to coordinate a seamless pick-up and delivery for the families.
