Thursday, February 26, 2009
CRAWFORD PLAINS SCHOOL STUDENTS SHINE
Grade 5 students at Crawford Plains School have inspired others and made positive steps to helping Edmonton's homeless population. In mid-January, students participated in an amazing week long field trip called City Hall School where they met various people, gained an appreciation and understanding of local government and participated in excellent discussions.
One notable opportunity was a visit to the Mustard Seed Church in inner-city Edmonton. Walking from City Hall to the Mustard Seed outside in temperatures well-below freezing, students gained awareness and sensitivity to the lives of those without homes. A perfect follow-up to this was a presentation by Ms. Lavonne Hailes of Community Services in Clareview who spoke about the numbers of adults and children without homes, the limitations of the shelters in Edmonton and the conditions which lead to homelessness. She presented a touching video about homelessness in Edmonton and had students do a mock dramatization of what it's like to try and find a place to stay warm in the night. At the end of this week, many students were touched and decided they wanted to do something to help. Three girls in Grade 5 organized a fundraiser to raise money for the Mustard Seed Church. They independently approached the principal for permission to hold a popcorn sale, organized the class into groups, found someone to donate popcorn and advertised around the school. At the end of the five-day sale, the students raised more than $500!
The students' compassion and enthusiasm is impressive to say the least. They have continued to collect donations from family, friends and community members and are excited to share their accomplishments. On Friday, March 6, many of the students, and their families, will go to the Mustard Seed Church to prepare and serve clients during their drop-in, and then present the money they have raised.