CORNWALL, Ontario – For students who experience bullying, having the courage to tell someone may be daunting.
The supporters of Girls Night Out are looking to make the process easier by implementing Buddy Benches as beacons of safety in local schools.
On Sept. 22, Girls Night Out will be hosting a dance, for all genders, at 7 p.m. at the Army Navy Air Force Club. All funds raised will be put towards the benches.
“We think this is something we can really affect the community with and get everyone involved,” explained Naomi Lamarche, founder of Girls Night Out.
The Buddy Bench program has been a success in parts of the U.S. and Canada, even here in Cornwall, according to Lamarche.
If a student is being bullied or struggling with something, they can sit on the bench to signal their feelings. Designated students will then approach them and offer to play, talk or sit down with a staff member.
“It’s a kindness program, and what it’s starting to do is, these kids are realizing they have a safety beacon they can go to, so they can walk away from the bully,” said Lamarche. “There’s power in kindness.”
Lamarche feels that some students in grade 7 and 8 are facing more challenges amalgamating with high school students, as opposed to remaining in middle school or elementary school settings.
“Sometimes children are intimidated,” she said.
Benches range between $300 and $700, depending on what the school is allowed to have. Lamarche is currently in the process of reaching out to schools in the area to see if they want to be involved. Depending on the amount fundraised and the number of schools involved, Lamarche will draw the names of the successful schools on the night of the dance.
The Buddy Bench dance will start at 7 p.m. and will cost $15 at the door. There will also be a 50/50 draw, the chance to win a wine basket and live karaoke singers. Those interested in purchasing a ticket are encouraged to call Lamarche at 613-363-8948 or email her at nlamarchegirlpower@gmail.com.
