Beal students challenge London schools to step up for the Holiday Big Give

Beal Secondary students are participating in the Holiday Big Give School Challenge to raise money and goods for Ark Aid Mission. Reta Ismail reports.

H.B. Beal Secondary School is calling on all London-area high schools to “step up” and support people experiencing homelessness this winter.

The school has joined the Holiday Big Give School Challenge, a campaign led by Ark Aid Mission to help more than 2,700 Londoners who may go without shelter this season. The initiative launched Nov. 1 and runs until Dec. 15.

Grade 12 student Jana Nazirova says the effort hits close to home.

“It’s definitely a very present issue, very close to school,” she said. “We have such a huge student population compared to many schools in the city that it’s really important that we use all of that power to make a difference.”

Students and staff aim to raise money, collect winter essentials, and support more than 200 nightly shelter beds for individuals and families in crisis. The work is part of ‘Beal Gives Back,’ an ongoing school commitment to community service and social responsibility.

Teacher Lynn Thompson says her students were motivated after hearing from Ark Aid Mission’s Sarah Campbell during a classroom visit.

“Her speech was so impactful that my students responded and talked to me about how important these issues are to them and how they wish they could learn more and do more,” Thompson said.

From Dec. 1 to 15, students will lead fundraising events, create awareness videos, and produce art-based projects reflecting community needs and their hopes for change.

Grade 12 student Lital Raz says the challenge inspired her art leadership club to get involved.

“I immediately thought of us creating Christmas cards for them, maybe doing some painting,” she said. “I think it’s a really great initiative.”

The school that raises the most money or collects the most winter essentials will receive a $1,000 bursary to support a student-led project, along with a custom trophy and city-wide recognition.

“Friends at Nothers Awards Store have partnered with us to gift this wonderful trophy for the most generous school, as well as our $1,000 bursary,” said Paula Simpson, director of advancement and strategic initiatives at Ark Aid Mission.

Schools across the region can participate by donating, collecting supplies or hosting awareness events.

More information can be found on Ark Aid Mission’s website.