Elementary students at a Comox Valley school raised over $1,000 for local affordable housing.
Students in Myra Wilson’s Grade 4/5 class at Huband Elementary raised the $1,254.50 towards housing through their “Candy Gram” Valentine’s Day fundraiser. They say the movement began after students wrote poems or essays last year about what makes a home.
The money raised is going towards Habitat’s upcoming project on 1375 Piercy Rd. in Courtenay. It will provide homes for 12 families.
Wilson said the writing inspired the first Candy Gram sale.
“After writing about what makes their own home special, they were inspired to help local families who don’t have the security of a safe home,” explained Wilson. “Also, the students remembered the success of the fundraiser last year and were keen to do it again.”
Along with the fundraiser, the students were able to raise another $450 by participating in the Meaning of Home contest.
Wilson said this year was more special as community members helped to pitch in for the fundraiser, including staff at a local grocery store.
“The staff remembered hearing about the fundraiser last year and offered to help,” said Wilson. “Several staff members helped me count out all the chocolates and the manager offered a discount.”
She said the leadership from the students is inspiring and hopes more will be done later on.
“These are school experiences that they’ll remember, and hopefully, it will encourage
them to find more ways to give back to the community in the future,” she added.
