Banff Community High School students raised enough money to feed 128 families for a month through a 30-Hour Famine fundraiser.
The event brought in $3,844.53 in donations from friends, family and community members who were canvassed by 19 Grade 9 to 12 students.
Karalee Derkson, Lara Buchmann-Duck and Kayla Feragen were responsible for organizing the 30-hour famine through World Vision. The three Grade 11 students came up with the idea after taking part in a leadership conference and hearing first hand of food and water shortages around the globe from various youth ambassadors.
“The conference educated us on world issues and equipped us to take control and work on improving issues and awareness,” said Buchmann-Duck.
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“From this, we now know we can make a difference.”
All students that took part in the 30-Hour Famine gathered for a potluck lunch prior to beginning the challenge.
During the event, students were able to drink juice, water and have a cup of rice if they felt faint – although some went as far as participating in rugby practice.
The three organizers were together for a good portion of the time watching movies, ones that were not based around food, and providing support for one another.
Admittedly, the students felt moments of hunger, but the biggest difference they noticed was a lack of energy. Even a casual walk on the Fenland Trail loop prompted them to take breaks on benches.
“You really start to reflect on how people have to go this long without food on a regular basis. It’s a art of their everyday life,” said Derkson.
The students’ plan on organizing another 30-Hour Famine fundraiser next year as well and they feel that with more time to plan they can raise more funds and awareness.
“This is how World Vision gets a good portion of its revenue. It’s been worthwhile to be a small part of that,” said Feragen.
Money raised from the 30-Hour Famine will go towards providing nutritious food and access to safe drinking water. It will fund projects in countries around the world, including Canada.
Lois Vanderlee, guidance counselor at BCHS, said that the three students are committed to making a difference locally and globally by “being involved, caring and contributing to make a better world.”
“They have the energy and vision to make things happen. I am confident that this is only the beginning of what these girls will offer – making a difference today and tomorrow,” she said.
Publisher: Kim Oliver Proprietor and published by Bowes Publishers Limited at 201 Bear Street, Banff, Alberta, Canada T1L 1H2
