Barrhead Elementary School lends a helping hand

A number of children will wake up Christmas morning and find a present underneath the tree thanks to the efforts of Barrhead Elementary School (BES).

On Friday, Dec. 8, Chrissie Epp and Pauline Payne’s Grade 6s took time off from their classes to go on a special shopping spree to buy toys for Barrhead and District’s FCSS Santa’s Toy Box.

The program helps parents, who would not otherwise be able to afford to do so, ensure that their child has at least one present.

Epp said the initiative started about seven years ago when she first arrived at BES.

“I was looking for ways for my class to become more involved in the community,” she said, adding the school’s Grade 6 classes have a long history of taking on projects that get them out into the community, giving the example of their intergenerational program.

Once a month two classes visit the residents of Barrhead Continuing Care Centre. Originally Epp said she was hoping to have her students join the intergenerational program, but because of the numbers, she decided to look for other projects.

Luckily she had a connection to Barrhead and District FCSS’ Ros Rudd, who among other things, is in charge of the Santa’s Toy Box program.

To prepare for the spree Epp’s class organizes a school-wide bake sale in late November, with the proceeds going towards the shopping trip. This year more than $900 was raised.

“The kids really like to be involved in the whole process and I really think by having to go out and buy the toys it becomes a better teaching and learning opportunity,” she said. “I believe it helps build that empathetic nature and gives them a better understanding of what Christmas is all about. And by supporting our local retailers, it also has the benefit of keeping the money in our community.”

In addition to the shopping trip, Epp’s class plays a big part in organizing the school’s annual toy drive.

Rudd said the school’s contribution has become a big part of the program.

“I think it is just amazing, not only because of the help they give the program, but just to see how excited they are every year. I think it is a wonderful way to teach them the importance and joy of giving.”