HASTINGS AND PRINCE EDWARD DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Water Wavers bake sale makes big waves

On Wednesday March 26, 2025 at Madoc Township Public School, Angela Burr's Grade 4/5 class, known as the Water Wavers Changemakers, hosted a bake sale to raise funds for Neskantaga First Nation. Through their efforts, they raised over $6000. Neskantaga First Nation is an Ojibwe community near Thunder Bay that has been under a boil water advisory for over 30 years.

Inspired to take action, the class organized a bake sale under the motto "Save Nibi, Save Life" which was proudly displayed on the back of t-shirts they designed and wore. "Nibi" means water in Ojibwe.

While the project began in social studies, the project crossed the curriculum students wrote persuasive letters to businesses asking for donations, explored water filtration in science and created decorations for their classroom and treat boxes. They also created a marketing plan that included making announcements and designing posters to promote the event, in addition to developing a business plan.

The students' inquiry began by looking at a giant map of Canada. As they examined it, they wondered whether the Great Lakes were connected and noticed that many Indigenous communities were far from essential resources like food and clean water. Their research led them to learn about Indigenous water advocates Josephine Mandamin and her great-niece, Autumn Peltier, the Chief Water Commissioner for the Anishinabek Nation.

Prior to the bake sale, local businesses contributed $3,150 in donations, demonstrating strong community support for the cause. As a token of appreciation, each donating business received trays of treats delivered to them.

Beyond raising funds, the event also served as an important opportunity to raise awareness about water access issues affecting Indigenous communities and to show the people of Neskantaga First Nation that people care.

The Water Wavers Changemakers at Madoc Township Public School prove that small acts can make big waves! Thank you to everyone who supported the students' project whether by donating, baking or purchasing treats. Your participation helped make the event a success!