Students in St. Clair College's Protection, Security and Investigation as well as Police Foundations programs, joined forces for good to help people in need.
During the latter part of October, students in the PSI/Police Foundations Society collected non-perishable food items and grocery gift cards for its annual Halloween for Hunger event. In total, students collected 742 items for New Beginnings and its emergency food pantry.
"I'm beyond proud of what our society accomplished through this year's event," said Darrelle Vaughn. "What means the most to me is the heart and dedication behind it. Every item collected represents a moment of kindness, a shared purpose, and a willingness to help others."
According to New Beginnings Windsor-Essex Executive Director Stacey Yannacopoulos, the food items will go a long way to help feed people in vulnerable situations.
"Our Youth Emergency Food Pantry is being used more than ever, and the students' generosity ensures that young people in our community have access to the essentials they need," said Yannacopoulos.
She noted New Beginnings is seeing an increasing number of youths facing multiple barriers, including food insecurity, unstable housing, limited family support, and mental health challenges.
The emergency pantry is designed with youth in mind because it's stigma-free, has walk-in access, and removes the obstacles that so often prevent young people from seeking help.
"Having a safe, welcoming place to turn to is essential, and for St. Clair College students to recognize that need and take action means so much to us and to the youth we serve," she said. "Their compassion and commitment make a real and immediate difference in the lives of young people who often feel overlooked."
"Seeing our students come together with so much enthusiasm and compassion truly moves me," Vaughn said, noting everyone went above and beyond donating what they could, encouraging others to contribute, and giving their time to make the event a success. It's moments like this that remind me why I'm so proud to be part of the PSI/Police Foundations Society."
"Our group has such a strong sense of community and empathy, and it shines through in everything we do," Vaughn said. "This experience is a beautiful reminder of what can happen when people unite for a common cause, and it makes me incredibly proud to be part of an amazing community like the one we have right here at St. Clair College."
Poppy Drive
Students in the PSI/Police Foundations Society quickly turned their efforts to supporting veterans during the lead up to Remembrance Day.
Students took turns selling poppies in the hallways of St. Clair College and raised more than $1,000 for the Royal Canadian Legion.
"I wanted to help run this event because I honestly just enjoy helping other people," said Steven Mcghee. "The students that volunteered to collect donations helped because they enjoy giving back to their community and helping people who fought for our country."
Mcghee said it feels good knowing he and other students are making a difference for veterans.
"Veterans only get one day a year to look back on what they did for our country," Mcghee said. "That's why I wanted to help, just knowing that I can help one person who fought for our country really makes me feel good."
