A number of our children will wake up Christmas morning and find a present underneath the tree thanks to the efforts of Barrhead Elementary School (BES).
On Friday, Dec. 9, Chrissie Epp’s Grade 6 class took time off from their classes to go on a special shopping spree to buy toys for Barrhead and District’s FCSS Santa’s Toy Box.
The program helps parents, who would not otherwise be able to afford to do so, ensure that their child has at least one present.
“My class started organizing the drive about four years ago,” Epp said, adding it first started out as a straight toy drive.
In subsequent years, in addition to collecting toys, the class has organized fundraisers such as a school-wide bake sale, with the proceeds going towards Santa’s Toy Box.
However, last year Epp decided instead of just donating the money they raised for the charity, the class would use the funds to buy toys instead.
“The kids really like to be involved in the whole process and I think by having to go out and buy the toys it becomes a better teaching and learning opportunity,” she said. “I believe it helps build that empathetic nature and gives them a better understanding of what Christmas is all about. And by supporting our local retailers, it also has the benefit of keeping the money in our community.”
Ros Rudd, FCSS community and development co-ordinator, said the school’s contribution has become a big part of the Santa’s Toy Box program.
“What these young people are doing is just incredible and I commend their teacher for helping them develop such an important life skill,” she said.
