Kelsea Margolis, a Bat Mitzvah fund-holder at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba decided to allocate the 2008 income from her Bat Mitzvah fund to “Sleeping Children Around the World”.  

“I was doing some research to find a charity that would really capture my interest,” says Kelsea. “I thought it was a great opportunity to do my part in helping children in under-developed and developing countries,” she adds. 

Sleeping Children Around the World (SCAW) is a Canadian charity that was established in 1970. Through its donations, the organization provides bed kits to children of any race and/or religion who will benefit the most - typically in under-developed and developing countries. In 2009, SCAW will reach its millionth child. 

The bed kits are comprised of a mat or mattress, pillow, sheet, blanket, mosquito net (if applicable), clothes, towel and school supplies. Bed kit contents vary from country to country, depending on local needs. Every child is photographed with their bed kit, with a label showing the donor's name/country (or special occasion message). Each photograph is then mailed back, providing a touching way for the donor to remember the child who so greatly benefited from their generosity. 

“Seeing exactly what I had done and the person I had helped gave me such a rewarding feeling, knowing I was making a difference and changing a life for the better,” says Kelsea. 

Establishing a Bar or Bat Mitzvah fund at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba allows young adults the opportunity to support their favourite organizations and make a difference in someone’s life, today - tomorrow -  forever.

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