By: Riana Nandal, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
The 2025 holiday season at Belle River District High School (BRDHS) began with warmth, generosity, and a remarkable spirit of giving. Over recent weeks, Noble students, staff, and community members joined forces to support meaningful causes, raise funds, and provide essential items to those in need.
Halloween for Hunger Can Drive
Kicking off the charitable season, the annual Halloween for Hunger Can Drive ran from October 27 to November 10. Students collected canned goods and non‑perishable items, demonstrating a strong commitment to making a difference. Student council advisor Ms. Bell noted, “Our Noble students united and came together to bring in as many donations and canned items as they possibly could in order to support this very important cause.”
Ambitious goals were set for each class and grade, with plans to announce results and give special recognition during the BRDHS Mettler Cup tradition. This event also tied in with the Can Drive, where students could contribute 20 cans or $20 as donations for “buybacks.”
Hack the Holidays
On November 10, Ms. St. Pierre’s Grade 10 Computer Engineering students partnered with experienced Grade 11 and 12 students, along with eager Grade 9s, for the third annual Hack the Holidays event. This initiative encourages students to apply their engineering skills to make toys more accessible for children with disabilities and special needs.
Grade 11 participant Storm Michener, who helped adapt six toys, shared, “I love participating in this event because I get to use my passion for technology to help and give to others, especially for the holidays.” On November 11, computer students from across the GECDSB joined the Nobles to maximize the impact.
Lead teacher Mrs. St. Pierre reported that more than 75 students participated, creating over 40 accessible toys and 60 switches, including remote‑controlled vehicles, flying geckos, lava lamps, and bubble machines. All items were donated to the John McGivney Children’s Centre, where families can now select toys for their children.
Remembrance Day
On November 11, BRDHS paused to honour Remembrance Day. Students, staff, and community members gathered to pay tribute to those who served. The red poppies worn on the left side served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for peace and freedom. Contributions supported this tradition, and poppies were worn with pride.
Kindness Week & Day
Thursday, November 13 was World Kindness Day, filling BRDHS with positivity. Students wore pink shirts and shared encouraging messages on social media. Teacher Mrs. Cada explained, “Kindness Day at BRDHS is about more than just wearing pink. Students look for ways to be a little extra kind and helpful. In my language classes, students wrote friendly letters to members of the school community, including students, staff, custodians, and administrators.”
The start of the 2025 holiday season at BRDHS highlights the power of community, compassion, and charitable giving — values that unite and inspire. The combined dedication of students, staff, and community members is making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need this season.