Elmwood Gr. 3 students spread generosity
At École Elmwood School in Altona, a Grade 3 class recently embraced the spirit of giving, turning lessons about human needs into heartfelt action for their community.
“We were learning about basic human needs,” explained teacher Lori Dueck. “The kids realized that while everyone has a right to food and shelter, not everyone gets to enjoy those basics. That realization sparked a conversation about local organizations that help meet those needs.”
The class delved into the work of organizations like the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) and the Share the Warmth program at The Community Exchange. Inspired to make a difference, the students devised a plan: a candy cane fundraiser held just before Christmas.
“People could donate a dollar for a candy cane or donate winter wear,” Dueck shared. “We raised over $300 and collected four bags full of jackets, ski pants, mittens, and toques.”
The initiative was more than a charitable act, Dueck said. It was an opportunity for the students to apply their learning in a meaningful way. “We discussed what happens when people don’t have access to clean water, food, or clothing. The students quickly grasped the importance of community support and were eager to contribute.”
Last week, the class proudly delivered their donations in person to both organizations, making the experience even more memorable.
At the MCC Thrift Shop, the students handed over their contribution to manager Dave Rempel, who was deeply touched by the kids’ generosity.
“This money makes a real difference. It’s life-changing work you’ve done,” he told the students. He went on to share a story from a recent visit to Uganda, where MCC supports families in need. “A young man received a goat from MCC, which cost about $40. That one goat changed his life. He now has five goats and dreams of trading up to buy a cow and eventually a plow for farming. This will allow him to support a family.
“Your efforts are making a difference just like that,” Rempel said, emphasizing the far-reaching impact of the group’s contribution.
The class then visited The Community Exchange to deliver bags of winter wear for the Share the Warmth program. Director Paul Peters was thrilled by their thoughtfulness.
“It’s wonderful that they thought of us. Giving back is so important, and this experience helps kids understand the power of generosity,” he said. “When you’re kind and generous, you’re not only helping others but also feeling good yourself. It’s a win-win.”
This project left a lasting impression on the students.
“It makes me feel good to help people,” said Vaughn Martonito. “I’m happy for those who need it most.”
Zachary Peters added, “Helping others is a fun thing to do. I’d like to do it again sometime.”
For Dueck, the project was a powerful reminder of her students’ compassion and insight.
“They have such big hearts,” she said. “When we talked about generosity, the kids surprised me. They pointed out that people who’ve experienced need themselves often have the strongest desire to help others. Many of our students come from diverse backgrounds and understand what it’s like to start fresh in a new place, sometimes without basics like a warm coat.”
The fundraiser also highlighted the importance of connecting lessons in the classroom with real-world issues.
“We discussed how, if our needs are met, we have an opportunity to help others,” Dueck explained. “The students took that to heart and ran with it. They brainstormed ways to make an impact, and the candy cane fundraiser was their idea. It was wonderful to see them embrace it so fully.”
What made the project even more special was the personal connection many of the students had to the cause.
“We have an increasingly diverse number of kids in our school, and many of them understand on a personal level what it’s like to come to a new community and need support,” said Dueck. “It’s amazing to see how those experiences have shaped their empathy and drive to give back.”
