Annalies Henckel from Courtenay was a runner-up in Genworth Canada's sixth annual contest describing what home means to the young entrants.
Genworth challenged Grade 4, 5 and 6 students across the country to think about what home means to them.
The popularity of the contest continues to grow and this year Genworth employees reviewed nearly 5,000 entries, 55 per cent more than 2011’s record-breaking year.
Teachers say that the contest brings out discussions around the plight of the homeless and helps teach students the importance of helping those in need. Year after year, employees are touched by the heart-felt thought and emotions shared by Canada’s youth.
Because Genworth Canada believes every Canadian deserves to live in a safe and secure home, every entry in the Meaning of Home contest generates $5 for Habitat for Humanity with $60,000 donated on behalf of the winner and $5,000 donated on behalf of each runner-up.
Since being launched in 2007, Genworth Canada’s Meaning of Home contest has generated more than $570,000 in grants being directed to more than 30 Habitat affiliates across the country and its employees have dedicated hundreds of volunteer hours on Habitat builds in Canada.
Not only has Genworth Canada helped over 1.2 million Canadian families achieve the dream of homeownership by helping them buy their first home, but also helps Canadians stay in their homes. Genworth Canada’s Homeowner Assistance Program has helped more than 18,000 Canadian homeowners remain in their homes during times of financial hardship.
— Genworth Canada