Students from Mattawa's Sainte-Anne and Élisabeth-Bruyère French-language Catholic schools joined forces to deliver their largest-ever collection of non-perishable food and clothing during the newly named Camionnette de cannettes, (Can Van) to the local food bank in the form of a human chain on Friday, November 1.
"This chain of students and staff began at the main school doors as a sign of solidarity, determination and generosity, then travelled down Brydges Street, and ended on Second Street, where trucks were waiting to receive donations," says a release. "Despite the rain, volunteers committed to delivering over 400 pounds of food and 1,000 items donated by the community of Mattawa in October. Near the end, participants witnessed the sun's rays and a magnificent rainbow, no doubt a token of thanks from the heavens."
“It's important to us, as responsible citizens, to help those in need in our community,” explains Paisley Nadon, president of the Student Cabinet at Élisabeth-Bruyère and student trustee at Conseil scolaire catholique Franco-Nord. “Our Catholic school teachers inspire us every day with experiences that develop our collaborative spirit, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. We can then use these skills concretely in our lives to build a better world.”
At the start of the school year, elementary and secondary teacher Lyne Joly formed a committee with her colleagues to launch an initiative to support individuals and families in need, particularly as winter approaches. That's when Can Van was born. In celebration of their remarkable efforts, each school offered its students special activities, such as a hide-and-seek game at Sainte-Anne and a karaoke session at Élisabeth-Bruyère. Both schools also enjoyed a pajama day.
Some students had the chance to throw a pie in a teacher's face.
At the end of the activity, Mathieu Bélanger, principal of both schools, said he was very pleased with the students' and community's commitment.
“This is the first edition of Camionnette de cannettes , but judging by the event's success, we're sure it will be an annual tradition to help people in the region. The food bank will continue to receive significant contributions, and students will continue to have daily experiences that promote forgiveness, sharing, peace, justice, and respect for human life”.
