NORTH BATTLEFORD — It all started with the question during art class, “What if we could make money selling our art?”
The seed of that idea soon grew into a desire to serve the community as participating students from Grades 5 and 7 paired their love of art and creativity with a generous spirit.
“At Notre Dame School we often talk to the students about acts of kindness and what we can do to help others around us,” said teacher Theresa Eppich. “Throughout the year we do different school missions as 'Secret Servants'to help fellow students, their families and people in our community. The students took that to a new level as they thought of a way to respond to a need they saw around them.”
Christmas can be a challenging time for families in need, said Eppich. “This presented the perfect opportunity for the students to put their ideas into action and to contribute to our community in a meaningful way. The students were so excited and enthusiastic at every step of the process. They really showed the heart of what it means to give joyfully to others.”
“We painted art to donate food for children who are are hungry to help them so they could eat and be healthy,” said Aleah.
“We loved the painting that we did to raise money and to donate. Other kids could help a lot of people out and have fun doing it if they want,” said Timea.
“The money could buy food for people who need food but do not have money. We got to help people that need food,” said Julio.
Eppich added, “As any business person knows, you cannot make money without someone to buy what you have to offer.”
She explained, the staff and residents at Caleb Village made the students' dream become reality by displaying the art and making it available for sale at their Christmas Craft Fair.
“They were so encouraging and supportive of the students working to make a difference in our community,” said Eppich.
Funds raised from the sale of the art will be combined with other donations collected from Notre Dame School to be presented to the local food bank during the busy Christmas season.
