While snow blankets Airdrie, students from L'École des Hautes-Plaines in Kings Heights, are braving the spring snow dump as they pitch tents. They will be camping outside for the next 24 hours near the school, all to bring awareness and spur donations for the Airdrie Food Bank.

Joëlle Barrette, a teacher at the Francophone school said that the initiative is not new; the school has done the 24-camp-out for the past 13 years. 

"We started [the] project because we figured out that the food bank [was in] need of food and [other things]. People can stop by the school, and donate. We have the food truck in front. [People] can give money as well. They can buy fresh fruits and vegetables for families."

ssDonations are welcome for a food drive being held at the L'École des Hautes-Plaines Francophone school in Airdrie. Students will be camped out for 24 hours, until Friday morning to spur donations. (Photo by Anna Ferensowicz) 

Previously, it was held in December, but it was moved to the spring months in the hopes of avoiding extreme weather conditions. Unfortunately, the campout is smack dab in the middle of yet another snowfall warning for Airdrie. Despite the wintery conditions, Barrette said that students at the school have always been enthusiastic about the event.

"It's going to be humid this year, but it won't be that cold. They've known worse, but the kids love it!" she said. 

Students from across Grade Seven to the graduating grade 12 students are participating. 12-year-old Ella Scott is one of those students. She said that camping outside is also a way for students to better understand the struggles of those who are unhoused or vulnerable.

"I just think it's a great cause and it's a fun thing; we're here with all our friends, collecting money and food for people in need," Scott said.

Scott said the plans for the evening may involve a bit of catching up on homework, catching up with friends, and going for an evening walk in the snow. She said she is a little nervous about what the evening may bring in terms of the weather, but added that all is well that ends well. 

"I'm kind of nervous just because I don't want my tent [our box]  to get wet and to be cold. But... I'll just sleep through the night and we'll get home tomorrow! It's not the end of the world, but it's really exciting."

The students will be camped out until 9 a.m. Friday morning. Foodstuffs and monetary donations can be dropped off at the L'École des Hautes-Plaines school (1165 Ravenswood Drive, Southeast).

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