Grade 6 Students Raise $3,700 for The Mustard Seed
This holiday season, Grade 6 students at Grande Prairie Christian School (GPCS) are proving that small hands can make a big difference. The class raised $3,700 in support The Mustard Seed of Grande Prairie, providing joy, care, and hope to community members who could use a hand-up.
As part of their social studies curriculum on active citizenship, the students explored ways to give back during Christmas. “Our class discussed ideas and researched organizations we could become active with at Christmas, and they chose the local Mustard Seed,” explained teacher Julianna Davidson.
The funds raised will provide The Mustard Seed’s 50 residents with personalized gift bags filled with hygiene essentials, socks, gloves, hand warmers, and heartfelt hand-written cards. The students also gathered extra donations to stock The Mustard Seed’s on-site Christmas Market, where residents can select gifts for free for their friends and family.
“We are blown away by the students’ generous hearts. Their energetic fundraising efforts have been a wonderful blessing for our residents this Christmas. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!” - Kendra Sledding, Community Development Specialist, The Mustard Seed Grande Prairie
To make the project even more personal, the students went on a shopping trip to carefully select items for the packages. “It’s really true that helping someone in need feels way better than helping yourself,” shared Grade 6 student Grace Dauda. “Plus, this whole process was super fun!”
The project also connected to the class’s Bible memory verse, Acts 20:35: “It’s more blessed to give than to receive.” “This project impacted me a lot,” reflected student Chiamaka Dennar. “I never really thought about giving instead of receiving this Christmas. I hope these packages will bring joy to whoever receives them.”
For student Alia Lua, the experience left a lasting impression. “When I am sad, I’ll remember this project and know someone else is smiling because of me. Because of this project, many people will be grinning ear to ear.”
The impact of this initiative extended beyond the recipients—it also helped shift perspectives for the students.
“I saw genuine joy in the students while they shopped and planned for others. It’s been rewarding in unexpected ways, and I know these memories will impact these students far beyond just this year.” - Julianna Davidson, Grade 6 Teacher, Grande Prairie Christian School
We thank the local businesses that generously supported this student-led initiative. This project is a shining example of how compassion, leadership, and community spirit can come together to make a difference.
About The Mustard Seed Grande Prairie
The Mustard Seed provides supportive housing, programs, and resources to individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness. Learn more at The Mustard Seed Grande Prairie.
Division Information
Grande Prairie Public School Division
Email: communications@gppsd.ab.ca
Phone: 780-532-4491
