Students at Selkirk College are organizing their annual fundraising event, set to take place on Wednesday, October 31. This event changes our traditional views for Halloween night as costumed students and volunteers canvass the streets in Castlegar and Nelson collecting non- perishable food items for the Students’ Union Food Banks.
Students are striving to succeed in their academic endeavours in the face of under-funding, increasing tuition fees, lack of affordable housing and seasonal employment while completing their post-secondary education. This event will help raise awareness on student hunger, create connections between the students and the community, and it means the kick start for the Student Food Banks in the Castlegar, and Nelson Campuses of Selkirk College. Most of the campuses are far away from the community food banks and any grocery stores. By having a functional food bank on campus, students are able to access food even if they are not able to go into town.
“Students rely on the Food Bank, especially with the increase in most of the other expenses they face, including tuition fees. Usage of this important service at all campuses has increased over last year.” says Natalia Schwarz, Federation Representative for the Selkirk College Students’ Union. “This is just one of the many events in which we work together with the community to help make life a little bit easier for students.”
Students will be Trick or Treating in Nelson and Castlegar. The Selkirk College Students’ Union is looking for any non-perishable food items, especially healthy snack options. They will also accept perishable food items, including fruit, vegetables and bread.
If you’re interested in participating, please contact the Selkirk College Students’ Union offices in Castlegar 365.1262 or in Nelson 250.505.1329 and 250.352.6601 ext. 239. You can also email organiser@selkirkstudents.ca