Saying YES! to Kids in Eastern NL with the Anglican Foundation of Canada

An Anglican bishop speaks to a gathered group of youg people dressed in uniforms in a cathedral
By Michelle Hauser
Photography: 
photo from AFC

Say Yes! to Kids: Record-Breaking Campaign

The Anglican Foundation of Canada’s 2025 Say Yes! to Kids campaign has been hailed as its most successful yet, with 30 teams across the country raising more than $160,000. This achievement surpassed the national goal of $150,000 and marked the first time since the campaign began in 2021 that every single team met or exceeded its target.

From coast to coast to coast, parishes and dioceses found creative ways to engage their communities, launching fundraisers that inspired generosity and strengthened connections between congregations and young people. Since its launch, Say Yes! to Kids has provided nearly $900,000 in funding for youth-focused ministry across Canada. These grants have supported dozens of programs in areas such as mental health, food security, arts and music, and outdoor recreation.

The Anglican Charitable Foundation for Children (ACFC) provided a significant boost to this year’s national results with a generous $5,000 gift. This is the second time since the launch of Say Yes! to Kids that the ACFC has supported this growing national effort.

Anglican East NL Team Surpasses Goal

While only one Newfoundland and Labrador team participated, the results were inspiring. Branded as “Anglican East NL Says Yes! to Kids,” the team represented the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador under the leadership of Bishop Sam Rose.

Together, the diocesan team raised $7,780 on a $5,000 goal—a remarkable achievement made possible by wide participation across the Diocese.

Funds raised locally will contribute to a variety of initiatives. Some of this support will make it possible for young people from our Diocese to attend CLAY (Canadian Lutheran Anglican Youth Gathering), while other funds will bolster long-standing programs such as the Church Lads’ Brigade. In addition, the campaign creates space to explore new and emerging opportunities for ministry with children and young people—ensuring the Church continues to grow alongside the needs of its youngest members.

A Vision for the Future

Reflecting on the impact of this year’s campaign, Bishop Rose emphasized the importance of youth ministry in shaping the Church of tomorrow. “When we say yes to our youth, we are investing in a vibrant future for the Church,” he said.

The success of the Anglican East NL team demonstrates the power of generosity and a shared vision. Even with just one team representing the province, the campaign has helped plant new seeds of hope, reminding us that the Church’s future depends on how we nurture, support, and celebrate its youngest members today.