Free firearms, hunter safety course being offered to 20 youth

Paying it forward for the working family is putting out a call for auction items. The initiative, launched five years ago by Mike and Crystal Barkley, covers the cost for youth to take their firearms and hunter safety course. 

Mike says a total of 41 youth, between the ages of 12 and 18, have benefited from the program so far. He noted the goal is to raise enough money this year to cover the cost for 20 youth. The three-day certification takes place at the Iroquois Legion in August. 

The program is open to youth from across the region, including Smiths Falls, Brockville, Cornwall and everywhere in between.  

Mike says he started the initiative to address rural poverty. He explained he’s worked construction his whole life and one of his co-workers never brought a lunch so his kids could have food. Mike noted hunting teaches you many valuable skills, including patience and confidence.

The online auction in support of the program runs for one week, starting July 1, on the Paying it forward for the working family Facebook page. A moose hunt in Newfoundland is also being raffled off in support of the initiative. Tickets will be available later this month. 

To donate to the auction, or register a youth for the course, contact Mike directly by calling 613-406-3601.