Woodstock Big Brothers hook into O.F.A.H. Tackle Share

The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters is helping to put rods and reels into the hands of single-parent children by bringing its acclaimed O.F.A.H. Tackle Share program to the Woodstock & District Big Brothers.

“The O.F.A.H. is proud to work with Woodstock Big Brothers to promote local fishing opportunities,” said O.F.A.H. Youth Services Representative, Rhonda Barkley. “Through this program, kids and their Big Brothers can sign out rods, reels and assorted tackle the same way they would borrow library materials,” she said.

Canadian Tire, Shimano, Berkley, Lucky Strike Baitworks, KTL Canada, and Ontario Parks proudly sponsor O.F.A.H. Tackle Share. Since its launch in 1998, this program has become a province-wide success with 120 O.F.A.H. Tackle Share loaner sites hosted by Ontario Parks, public libraries, and participating Big Brothers and Big Sisters organizations.

Brian Matheson, a volunteer for Woodstock & District Big Brothers, said during his visit to the Outdoor Expo this past June, he was delighted to discover O.F.A.H. Tackle Share, which was featured at that event. He knew that hundreds of single-parent kids who otherwise couldn’t afford or have access to basic fishing equipment would welcome the O.F.A.H. Tackle Share in this community.

“The Woodstock & District Big Brothers is helping to promote active, healthy outdoor opportunities for kids and families. Our partnership with the O.F.A.H. gives local youth an alternative to video games and television. O.F.A.H. Tackle Share opens a world of outdoor adventure right here in Woodstock,” said Mr. Matheson.

Mr. Matheson added that he hopes O.F.A.H. Tackle Share may inspire the recruitment of more Big Brothers who would be interested in sharing their love for fishing with some local kids. For more information about the O.F.A.H. Tackle Share program hosted by Woodstock & District Big Brothers, call 519-539-7469.