Warm Feet, Caring Hearts
by Carly Leggett and Aneeta GosalGlamorgan Elementary Grade 6 Student Teachers
“Dear Sir,
I hope that your Christmas is great for you and that this stuff makes it even better. This is right from my heart and I care about what happens to you.”
From Savannah, Noah, Maddie, Mom and Dad
“I really wish you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I really, really hope that you enjoy and make good use of this stuff.”
-Anonymous
Reading these letters brings back memories of warm fires, hot chocolate and the gathering of families and friends. You might think that these notes have been written to friends or loved ones by children. However, this is not the case. These notes are from two children to two strangers, people that these children have never met or seen. They are sending a message of hope and caring to individuals who may not have otherwise heard these kind words.
On December 1st the children of Glamorgan Elementary School dressed in pajamas and donned their wildest bed-heads to support The Mustard Seed's Warm Feet For The Street program. Every holiday season The Mustard Seed collects socks stuffed with toiletries and other daily necessities to give to families and other individuals in need. The Student Council of Glamorgan Elementary organized this event to raise awareness of the diversities present in our city and communities, and to support individuals who are less fortunate this holiday season.
In exchange for getting to wear pjs to school, students and staff were encouraged to donate toiletries to put into the socks. We were amazed and astounded with the generosity! In total they collected over 200 stuffed socks filled with goods such as shampoos, conditioners, soaps, combs, toothbrushes and toothpastes. Many of the students also included a message of hope and kind words, like those shown above. These students have truly shown a sense compassion and spirit well beyond their years. 
We would like to thank the Mustard Seed for allowing us to participate in this wonderful event and the members of the Glamorgan Student Council for all of their hard work and dedication.
Have a comment about this article? Want to write a letter to the editor or maybe an article yourself? Contact ataglance@ata38.ab.ca to find out more.
© December 2005, ATA Local #38 Calgary Public Teachers
