Kindness tends to swell around the holiday season, and the students at Gault institute were on the receiving end of a tidal wave of generosity in December.
The Salaberry-de-Valleyfield-based elementary school was selected by Giant Tiger for the local department store’s annual Christmas Angels campaign, which raised more than $4,000. All the students received a gift from the store during a special visit from Santa on December 19. The school’s governing board and parent participation organization (PPO) split the cost of wrapping paper, and 19 volunteer elves converted a classroom into a workshop to wrap all 319 gifts following the annual Christmas concert.
Earlier in the month, the Aubainerie clothing store outfitted more than 40 students with cold-weather gear, including 15 complete snow suits, as well as enough boots, mitts, and hats for everyone to enjoy recess outdoors this winter. Principal Anick Leclerc said the donation totalled over $4,000, after the school requested a dozen pairs of warm mitts and some snow pants.
Students in Grade 2 and Grade 5 organized a food drive and motivated and encouraged all 18 classes to donate enough goods to fill 16 food baskets to help school families in need. The school added fresh produce to the baskets, and several anonymous donors dropped off gift cards totaling over $2,500 to be included in the baskets as well. The food baskets are part of a longstanding tradition within the school, with staff members helping to wrap and deliver the baskets each year in time for holiday meals.
Leclerc said the generosity of their partners, families, and school community arrived at a time of great need following budget restraints. “I am very happy that I get to be a part of this,” said Leclerc, while thanking all those who helped make the holiday season one to remember.
Parent Participation Organization (PPO) chairperson Melissa Harbour Haineault also acknowledged the network of parent volunteers for their efforts to spread holiday magic throughout the school. “Their generosity, enthusiasm, and hard work made the festivities extra special for our students and staff,” she said.