The spirit of giving shone brightly at École Elmwood Elementary School this December, as students and staff came together to support the Rhineland Area Food Bank with a festive food drive.
From Dec. 3-13, students from Kindergarten to Grade 3 were encouraged to donate non-perishable items to help local families in need.
The project added an extra layer of excitement to the countdown to winter break.
“The last day of the food drive happened to be a Dress like an Elf Day, so there was also a lot of red and green running around the school, which added to the fun,” shared principal Scott Hiebert.
Throughout the drive, families were encouraged to donate whatever they could.
“We have a good assortment of soups and dry goods, peanut butter and juice,” Hiebert said. “A really nice variety of things.”
The outpouring of support from the school community was heartwarming.
“Families really came through with their giving. They gave whatever they were able, and we made sure that the kids knew that was okay,” Hiebert said.
“The idea is that we’re thinking about other people, and it’s not about how much we bring in; it’s about the spirit of giving and taking care of each other. Every year we try to make it easy for families to support others and make sure that those who need the support have information about how to access the food bank.”
The food drive not only provided much-needed support for the community, but also fostered a sense of empathy and kindness among the students, he added.
“Students were eager to contribute to the growing pile of food under the school Christmas tree. It reminded everyone of the importance of looking out for one another. They know they’re helping others who may not have access to all the food that they do. There have been important conversations about generosity and taking care of each other at this time of the year.”
Students Kenzo Haw, Alice Peters, and Maya Ntaganira were particularly excited to discuss the value of giving and sharing.
“There are people who don’t have enough food and not enough money, and that’s why we do this,” Peters said. “It makes me feel good to bring food for them. I think they’ll be happy when they get it.”
“It’s nice that we have a food bank for people to go get food,” Ntaganira added.
Rhineland Area Food Bank coordinator Ang Stoesz says the school’s efforts are very much appreciated.
“It’s always so great to receive donations for the food bank, and when little kids get involved, it’s even better. They’re learning to give to others, and that’s always a good thing to see.”
