Edmonton Students Provide Free Clothing and Hygiene Products

Students from Ross Sheppard High School in Edmonton organized a successful two-day event, offering free clothing and hygiene products to those in need. This initiative, part of a non-profit called Givology, was founded by student Christina Daniel in 2024 after she learned that a peer was experiencing homelessness. The event, held on a Friday and Saturday, transformed the school’s south gym into a resource hub filled with donated items.

Daniel, now a Grade 12 student, expressed her motivation to create Givology, stating, “There was nothing that people would do for them, not even the district, because they had aged out of the system.” Her efforts have since fostered a charitable movement that has grown significantly, with approximately 10,000 clothing and hygiene products collected for distribution, up from an estimate of 5,000 in its inaugural year.

The event on the weekend saw 48 students actively involved in running the operation, with an additional 30 volunteering in the lead-up to the event. Each participant accumulates volunteer hours, gaining valuable experience, and can earn high school credits after completing 75 hours. Daniel attributes the success of Givology to the dedication of her volunteers and the generosity of the Edmonton community. “People are excited to come and understand that a sustainable and equitable way of shopping is here,” she noted.

As Givology continues to expand its reach, Daniel has begun collaborating with local organizations, including Hope Mission and The Mustard Seed, to further assist those in need. She aims to ensure that the initiative remains active even after her graduation. Other schools have expressed interest in adopting the Givology model, and Daniel envisions it evolving into a more recognized non-profit organization. “I want to take Givology with me,” she said, emphasizing her goal to create a lasting impact beyond her time at Ross Sheppard High School.

The initiative has not only provided essential resources but has also fostered a sense of community and solidarity among students and residents. Daniel’s commitment to ongoing charitable efforts reflects the spirit of giving that characterizes the Edmonton area, showcasing how student-led initiatives can make a tangible difference in the lives of others.