| Renfrew County Child Poverty Action Network (CPAN) is, as its name suggests, an action-oriented organization and as such is continually developing and refining its programs and services.
According to statistics, 1 in 8 children in Renfrew County are living in poverty. CPAN is involved with a number of activities related to the elimination of child poverty and minimizing the effect that poverty has on children. Last year (2006/2007), CPAN was able to help more than 1,000 children in the area.
To facilitate their continued expansion, CPAN welcomed administrative intern Cora Drake in July 2007. Cora’s position is funded by the Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation (RCCFDC) through the Youth Internship component of the Eastern Ontario Development Program (EODP).
In her capacity as administrative assistant to the CPAN Coordinator, Ms. Drake has made considerable strides in assuming the numerous tasks required to support the programs and services of CPAN. From streamlining office procedures and tracking program information, to contacting schools and businesses encouraging program support, as well as organizing and attending public awareness and fundraising events, Cora has become a valuable asset to the organization.
Programs such as Backpack Plus, which helps to supply a backpack, school supplies and pair of shoes to needy children at the beginning of the school year, and Operation Snowsuit, which collects and distributes new or gently used snowsuits, boots, hats and mittens during the winter, have benefited from the increased organization and improved turn-around time as a result of Ms. Drake’s efforts.
CPAN Coordinator Lyn Smith is also impressed by the additional time she is now able to spend on education and advocacy, which play a key role in solving the problem of child poverty in Renfrew County.
There are many reasons why children are poor in Renfrew County. For children growing up in poverty, the reasons don't matter. The impact does. And while there are still issues to be addressed, CPAN has made considerable progress in reducing the negative impact of poverty on children in Renfrew County. | 
