École Notre-Dame-du-Sault Students Create Blankets for Charity

A group of students from École Notre-Dame-du-Sault, a French-language Catholic school located on North Street, has come together to create blankets aimed at supporting women and children in need. Ten Grade 7 and 8 students, under the guidance of teachers Nadine Campbell and Marie-Pier Lecours, crafted three tie blankets: one designed for adults and two for children. These blankets will be donated to Centre Victoria, a non-profit organization on Elgin Street that provides support and counselling services to Francophone women experiencing violence and sexual assault.

The initiative not only equipped students with a new skill but also instilled a sense of community service. Grade 7 student Anna-Gayle Laroulette expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I really enjoyed it. It was a very good experience, and I think it’s good to help people in need.” Laroulette noted that the project took about half a week to complete, and she plans to make a blanket for her family in the future, potentially as a Christmas gift.

Learning Through Giving

The roots of this blanket-making project trace back to a personal connection between Nadine Campbell and Marie-Pier Lecours. Campbell shared that Lecours learned the art of blanket-making from her during her time as a student at École Notre-Dame-du-Sault in Grade 6. Upon Lecours’ return as a teacher, she suggested the idea of involving current students in crafting blankets for a good cause. “It was very special to be able to do it for a good cause,” Lecours remarked. “Nadine taught me how and I still make them. They’re my go-to gift now.”

The blankets were made from fleece, which was purchased by the school, and the students dedicated their recess time to the project. Campbell highlighted the students’ commitment, stating, “They’re diligent. They made the blankets on their own free time.” The students took pride in their work, knowing it would benefit others in need.

Lecours added that discussions were held about how the students could use their newfound skills to create gifts in the future, emphasizing the value of learning such a craft. “It’s a nice skill to know,” she said.

Continuing a Tradition of Generosity

This charitable initiative is part of a long-standing tradition at École Notre-Dame-du-Sault. According to Campbell, the school has been engaged in similar projects annually, often around the Christmas season. “It feels great, and I’ve done it for so many years with so many of my students. It’s a good feeling,” Campbell stated.

The efforts of these young students not only provide warmth and comfort to those in need but also foster a spirit of compassion and generosity within the community. As they continue to learn and grow, the students of École Notre-Dame-du-Sault are making a positive impact, one blanket at a time.