International Students Fundraise for Flood Relief

Three exchange students from Spain attending Pleasant Valley Secondary School have been fundraising to help out with the devastation in their home country last winter.

International students Carla Constant Policarpo, Martin Leal Negro, and Maria Mantecon Zoltaniecka explained that last October, severe weather and rain caused intense flooding in the Valencia region of Spain. The disaster resulted in over 200 deaths, significant damage, and a political outcry over accountability. It is considered one of the largest natural disasters in Spain, and many people are still recovering from its impact.

Feeling helpless being so far from home, Carla, Martin, and Maria decided to raise money to support recovery efforts. They encouraged people at PVSS and the Armstrong community to help them.

They organized a Spanish lunch at the school, with the help of teacher Elizabeth Woolnough and one of their host family mothers, Darlene White. The students were pleasantly surprised by the success of the event. Building on that momentum, they worked with teacher Andrea Threatful to organize slushy days at school to continue raising funds.

During the Armstrong light up on November 22nd, the Chamber of Commerce allowed the International students to set up a small stand, where they served hot chocolate and coffee donated by Armstrong Tim Hortons, along with cookies they had baked. They received overwhelming support from the community.

“We really enjoyed representing our country and having the opportunity to introduce some Spanish culture to Armstrong, while also having so much fun. We are very happy with the money we raised and it has been donated to the Red Cross in Spain, designated to the flood relief. We want to thank everyone who helped, supported us, and gave us an amazing experience,” concluded Maria.

PVSS Principal Steve Drapala commended the students for their leadership, especially as they adjusted to life in a new country.  “They did this not only in their new school but also in the community at the Annual Christmas light-up event!  The staff and students loved experiencing a taste of Spanish culture and the community was happy to support.”

(Article information submitted by student Maria Mantecon Zoltaniecka)