Students at West Island College put a unique twist on Advent calendars

Secondary One students at West Island College are turning the idea behind the Advent calendar on its head.

READ MORE: Advent calendars catching on with grown-ups

Instead of counting down the days to Christmas with a sweet treat, they’re donating to community organizations every day.

Fiona Myers’ students are collecting canned goods, clothes and money for the 24 days of the Christmas season.

READ MORE: Advent Calendars: DIY options range from felted trees to tins filled with tiny treasures

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“From pasta donations to the West Island Mission Food Bank, to toiletries that went to Sun Youth,” said Elizabeth Stafiej, communications officer.

“These small acts of kindness will hopefully impact many people in need.”

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The students researched and picked the organizations they wanted to support.

Student Jack Dodds chose to raise money for the food bank his grandfather works at in Châteauguay.

“He doesn’t know yet,” he told Global News.

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“I’m hoping to surprise him.”

The class has already raised $50 to go toward WIAIH’s Christmas party this year.