Thomas saw images of Syrian Refugees and knew in his heart that something had to be done. His sense of social justice impelled him to take action, and he is making a difference.
With the help of family and friends, Thomas brainstormed options and landed on a neighbourhood lemonade stand. Cookies were baked, signs were made, and workers were recruited. Word got out, and the sales totalled $206. They set up shop at another location the following day and raised $200 more. With the addition of pledges from two inspired donors who heard about Thomas’s campaign, the weekend total reached $862. The Government of Canada announced that it will match every eligible dollar donated to the Red Cross in response to this crisis through Refugee Crisis Appeal. (link: https://secure.redcross.ca/
The success of the lemonade stands inspired the creation of a Facebook page, Kids for Peace: Lemons to Lemon-AID. If you want to support Thomas’s efforts, check out the Facebook page or drop by his lemonade and cookie stand here in our elementary school after school, Friday, September 18.
Rock on, Thomas!
- Mr. Tugwell
The photo is of Thomas and neighbourhood supporters and includes Mr. Gavin Giles, the vice chair of the Canadian Red Cross (according to Thomas's mother who has given us permission to use the photo - it is already on their Facebook page, with Mr. Giles' approval).
