Novelis Neighbour program supports Kingston Youth Shelter

Every year Novelis, the world’s premier producer of rolled aluminum and the global leader in aluminum recycling, show local love in our region, as part of the company’s global Novelis volunteer month projects.

Since 2012, Novelis employees have worked with United Way KFL&A to undertake a wide variety of projects during their annual Novelis Neighbour Week, according to a release from the United Way, dated Monday, Nov. 2, 2020. This year, Novelis volunteers will take on various projects at the Kingston Youth Shelter transitional home location on Yonge Street.

According to the United Way, volunteers will paint, install new hardware and doors in the kitchen, renovate bathrooms with new fixtures and assist with plumbing and electrical work, help with removing carpet from stairs and even work on helping to seal the driveway.

“As always, we are thrilled to have Novelis support United Way KFL&A through the Novelis Neighbour program,” says Bhavana Varma, President and CEO of United Way of KFL&A. “This year especially, these renovations will provide the youth shelter with much-needed assistance to help keep youth safe. We are so grateful for the ongoing support of local Novelis employees and for finding a way during the pandemic to continue the amazing work they do each year through this initiative.”

The United Way says that Novelis Neighbour week typically takes place in early October, but with COVID-19, the project was delayed. Safety protocols will be in place to ensure the safety of both the employees and residents of the Youth Shelter during this year’s project, including mask wearing, sanitizing, daily screenings and social distancing throughout the space during the week, according to the release.

“As a long-term supporter of our community, and in particular the United Way, Novelis is proud to partner on the youth shelter renovation this year,” said Kayla Kent, Human Resources Generalist and community Champion for Novelis.  “As we all come together to battle the effects of COVID-19 on our community, our hope is that this youth shelter will continue to serve as a safe and welcoming home for young people needing assistance and safe refuge.”

The project starts on Monday, Nov. 2, 2020 and will continue all week with volunteers on-site daily from 9 a.m. through till 4 p.m.