October 10, 2014

During the night of October 8, 100 students and five teachers from École secondaire catholique Champlain (Chelmsford) as well as two elementary school students took part in the Homeless for a Night activity.

With only cardboard boxes and tarps as shelter, the students sought to experience the reality of being homeless as they spearheaded a collection of non-perishable food items and monetary donations. Through their efforts and the support of Rayside-Balfour citizens, they collected a dozen boxes of food items as well as $4,000 in donations that will be used to purchase winter boots and warm clothing for less fortunate families in the community.

This activity started at 4 p.m. in the Métro supermarket parking lot. Once their evening shelters were completed, students prepared signs to wave on the sidewalk to raise awareness on the issue of poverty. After a meal, students spoke with community members, sans songs and took part in leadership activities. At 11 p.m., students settled in their boxes for the night. The next morning, they attended Family Week mass at St-Joseph Church. A warm and hearty breakfast was served afterwards at their school.

“Our awareness activity was very successful. Champlain students were able to change the world by becoming homeless for a night,” stated Mrs. Carol Bradley-Whissell, teacher at É.s.c. Champlain. “I am very proud of my students’ Catholic leadership through this valuable experience that will enable them to become better citizens.”

 The Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario offers a French Catholic Educational Program that is widely recognized for its excellence. The CSCNO provides a quality academic program that runs from early childhood to adult education, with some 7,000 students in 27 elementary and 10 secondary schools.

Info:    

Paul de la Riva
Communications and Community Development Coordinator
Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario
(705) 673-5626, ext. 294
(705) 677-8195 – cell phone