Students at
Gary Allan Learning Centre’s Kerr Street site in Oakville have partnered with local artists to create a collection box for non-perishable food for families in need.
During the pandemic, artists and Kerr Street neighbours Peter Pook and Elena Martoglio created a free library lending cupboard for the neighbourhood. Known worldwide as the “Little Free Library”, the book sharing concept was applied to a food-sharing pantry by Gary Allan Learning Centre students and staff.
Students repurposed the little library structures destined for landfill into a colourful and artistic pantry that will now provide non-perishable food such as kid-friendly items, canned food, personal care products and more.
Students have been learning to cut and shape stained glass, as well as work with tools like tile nippers, glass scorers and a glass grinder. Each piece is placed with a coat of thin-set adhesive that is secured permanently on the structure.
“Much like the little library program, the concept is to build a supportive, communal space, in this case, one that supports food insecurity and reflects the neighbourhood’s shared values,” says Greg Dailey, Vice-principal of Adult, Alternative & Continuing Education at Gary Allan Learning Centres. “It’s encouraging for students to learn new creative skills and instill a sense of enthusiasm and pride creating something that will benefit the public.”
Once completed, the Little Food Pantry will be situated on the St. Simon’s Anglican Church property located on Trafalgar Road.
The Little Food Pantry project connects to the
HDSB’S 2020-2024 Multi-Year Plan including the ‘Learning and Achievement’ and ‘Mental Health and Well-Being’ areas of focus.
“I feel incredibly proud of our students' involvement in this community project,” says Kimberley Wells, Educational Assistant with Gary Allan Learning Centre’s STEP program. “Our students learned how to work together as a team, learned to keep their commitment to helping the community and learned many new skills while having fun. Our students were excited to see the completed project and see the entire project through to the end on a timeline set out to them.”
