NBA star steps up with finanical donation to help save Brampton private school

A private school in Brampton that was on the brink of closure will stay open thanks to financial donations from the community and a large gift from the star of the Toronto Raptors.

Operators of Polkadots Playland and Montessori Academy had recently taken to social media to say they were on the verge of closing the Royal West Drive location if they didn’t come up with $80,000 to pay the rent by today (March 31).

The school, which offers classes from pre-kindergarten to Grade 6 and specializes in programs for children with autism, had also set up a GoFundMe page explaining how it has struggled to survive since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Members of the community heard the plea for help and donated enough funds to reach the financial goal.

“I am so grateful to report that with a very generous offline donation, we have reached our goal,” reported Polkadots Principal Josette Drummond on the GoFundMe page this past weekend.

That offline donation came through basketball star Scottie Barnes.

Although the amount of Barnes’ donation has not been revealed, it was learned that he heard about the impending closure and had a team official reach out to the school on his behalf with the offer of help. It is believed that Barnes stepped in with a $50,000 contribution.

Drummond added that the school community and others also generously donated to the cause, which will allow Polkadots to continue.

“The donations from each of you, has proven we are part of a community that cares,” Drummond continued. “The positive energy behind this amazing outpouring of support will fuel everything we do at Polkadots moving forward. Thank you for your help, we would not have made it without you!!!”