Grade 6 students at Grande Prairie Christian School have made a meaningful impact this Christmas season, raising $3,700 to support The Mustard Seed of Grande Prairie. This experience has helped those in need and changed how the students experience the season.
Teacher Julianna Davidson and her Grade 6 class present a check to Kendra Sledding, Community Development Specialist, Mustard Seed of Grande Prairie
"Active citizenship is part of the Grade 6 social studies curriculum," explained Grade 6 teacher Julianna Davidson. "Our class discussed ideas and researched organizations we could become active with at Christmas, and they chose the local Mustard Seed."
Kendra Sledding, Community Development Specialist with The Mustard Seed of Grande Prairie, said they are "blown away" by the students' generous hearts. "Their energetic fundraising efforts mean each of our 50 residents will receive a personalized gift bag, complete with a hand-written card, plus additional hygiene items, socks, gloves, hand warmers, and more!"
The students also collected extra items that will be added to The Seed's on-site Christmas Market,' allowing residents to shop for free so they too can give gifts to their friends and family.
Davidson shared how the project pushed students out of their comfort zone, including writing letters to local businesses for support. "This project impacted me a lot," said student Chiamaka Dennar. "It ties into our Bible memory verse, Acts 20:35: It's more blessed to give than to receive.' I never really thought about giving instead of receiving this Christmas I hope these packages will bring joy to whoever receives them."
A highlight of the project was a class shopping trip, where students personally selected items for the care packages. "It is really true that helping someone in need feels way better than helping yourself," shared student Grace Dauda. "Plus, this whole process was super fun!"
"People smile when they are happy," said student Alia Lua. "Because of this project, many people will be grinning ear to ear."
Sledding explained The Mustard Seed's mission is to build hope and well-being for the city's most vulnerable citizens through Jesus' love. "We are beyond grateful for the wonderful blessing the Grade 6 class has provided for our residents this Christmas. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!"
The Grande Prairie Christian School and the Grande Prairie Public School Division extend gratitude to the local businesses that supported this project. Davidson added, "I saw genuine joy in the students while they shopped and planned for others. It's been rewarding in unexpected ways." She said these memories will impact these students far beyond just this year.
More Information
The Mustard Seed of Grande Prairie partners with the city of Grand Prairie and provides vital supportive housing to those experiencing poverty and homelessness in the community. Learn more https://theseed.ca/grandeprairie
For more information
10127 120 Avenue
Grande Prairie Alberta
Canada T8V 8H8
www.gppsd.ab.ca
