The after-school tutoring program at the community centre. The breakfast club run by neighbourhood volunteers. The weekend sports league organized by parents when school sports were cut. The summer camp that emerged when families couldn't afford commercial options. Across Canada, communities fill gaps that public institutions leave—providing services, programs, and supports that children and families need but that schools and governments don't provide. This community response demonstrates resilience and care, but it also reveals systemic failures that shouldn't require community rescue.