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Once again, the Greater Essex County District School Board community has demonstrated the power of collective effort and generosity during the 22nd Annual Cereal Box Challenge. This year, students and staff from Talbot Trail, Glenwood, Bellewood, Southwood, Central, and McWilliam Public Schools came together to collect over 3 million grams of cereal in support of 33 GECDSB breakfast and snack programs.
The Legacy of the Cereal Box Challenge
The Cereal Box Challenge, initiated in 2003 by Trustee Kim McKinley and her daughter, began as a small-scale initiative at Oakwood Public School to provide breakfast and snack supplies to schools in the city’s west end. Over the years, the program has grown exponentially, involving numerous South Windsor schools and now delivering donations to over 28 GECDSB schools and four community organizations across Windsor-Essex.
Trustee Kim McKinley’s unwavering dedication and leadership have been instrumental in fostering a culture of giving and ensuring the program’s enduring success. Her efforts continue to inspire students, staff, and the broader community to participate and contribute year after year.
Celebrating Student Leadership
Owen, a Grade 7 student at McWilliam Public School, exemplifies the spirit of generosity and leadership that defines this initiative. Since kindergarten, Owen has chosen to forgo birthday gifts, asking instead for cereal donations to support the challenge. This year alone, he collected over 1,200 boxes of cereal, requiring a U-Haul truck for delivery. Over the years, Owen’s incredible efforts have brought in more than 3,000 boxes of cereal, proving that one student’s kindness can create a ripple effect throughout the community.
This year, McWilliam PS built on Owen’s inspiring leadership and collective school effort to once again take home the Cereal Box Challenge Trophy, achieving a record-breaking 1,898 grams per student average.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Community Partners
The success of the Cereal Box Challenge is built on the generous support of community partners and volunteers. The GECDSB extends its heartfelt gratitude to:
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Haley Furtado and SHARP Buslines: Their volunteer drivers ensure the cereal is transported safely and efficiently.
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Doug Robinson and the Three Aces Moving team: Their tireless efforts in managing logistics make large-scale deliveries possible.
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Greater Essex ETFO and an anonymous donor: Their generous contributions bolster the program’s reach.
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Paul Finlayson, Danielle Richer, Kim McKinley, Bob McKinley, and Gregory McKinley: For their unwavering support and assistance.
Together, we are building a stronger, more supportive community where students helping students makes all the difference.
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