Big Brothers Big Sisters of Portage la Prairie isn't letting the pandemic get in the way of helping children.

Classes have been in session for several weeks, and BBBS was given the green light to continue its School Mentoring Program.

Executive Director Dawn Froese says things will be different.

"Mentors who are going into the school will wear face masks as well as hand sanitizer. Then, they'll get to meet their mentor in the properly located place. So, we're looking forward to them having that opportunity to start up again and meet their mentors because the matches closed very abruptly in March. So, this will get a chance for them to see each other."

So far, the mentoring will only be extended to students of schools in Portage.

Froese breaks down how the Program will work.

"We have bins that we provide that have activities in them. So, we will have hand wipes in each of the bins, or hand sanitizer in each of the bins, as well as product that they can clean whatever they've been playing with. That way, we're keeping things COVID friendly, as well as nice and safe."

BBBS is also on the hunt to connect students with new mentors. Froese says it's a great opportunity.

"Certainly the mentors that I've talked to are really excited about the possibility of seeing their mentees again, getting to spend time with them just talking about how it's been for the last six months, and what's been going on in their life. So, I think it will be a very positive thing."

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