A Delta school has come together to thank essential workers and uplift spirits in care homes through a Christmas card campaign.
Last week, Students of Annieville Elementary in North Delta wrote more than 400 letters destined for those working on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. After a brief stint in quarantine the letters will make their way to Delta police, Delta fire department, Delta Hospital, Deltassist and Delta View Campus of Care as well as some local grocery stores.
The idea was first proposed by grade 4 and 5 teachers at the school and at first involved just sending letters to the surrounding neighborhood. Soon though other school staff caught wind of the plan and eventually the entire school wanted a piece of the letter writing action.
“Our school has always been really good at trying to find ways to connect with one another. It's just that COVID has put some limitations on that,” said Sonia Pieraccini, a Grade 2 teacher at Annieville Elementary.
Some places set to receive writings from the students have requested the students create a poster with their words of encouragement so it can be hung for passerby to admire.
Pieraccini has found that students want to get involved and help however they can during this tumultuous time and that letter writing is the perfect opportunity to do so.
“It's kind of like trying to tell the community that no matter how little you are or how young you are you can also participate in helping,” she said. “The kids hear about how firefighters help and how our first responders help and they want to participate in some manner and that's what makes schools great because we're able to be that venue for them.”
Stephanie Gregory, a Grade 2 teacher also at Annieville Elementary, says she is happy being able to facilitate the spreading of joy her students have to offer.
“It's just a way to kind of celebrate a little bit differently this year but still spread that joy,” Gregory said.
When Pieraccini asked her students why they wanted to write the cards, each of their responses highlighted how grateful they were for the efforts of frontline workers.
“This helps support people and thank them for what they have done. They have done lots for us and now we are doing something back for them,” wrote one student.
Another student wrote “We are being nice to them. They are helping us survive.”
