LITTLE CURRENT—Love is in the air at Little Current Public School, where Grade 7 students worked diligently to handcraft 21 pairs of teeny-tiny moccasins for babies in local First Nation communities.
The heartfelt project began in the fall, when students learned about residential schools and their impact on Indigenous peoples in Canada. Eager to make a difference, they sought ways to bring reconcilitation into their classroom and community.
During their inquiry, students discovered the Have a Heart Day campaign, which is celebrated on Valentine’s Day. Spearheaded by the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada, the child and youth-led movement ensures First Nations children have the services they need to grow up safely at home, get a good education, be healthy and be proud of who they are.
Inspired to take part, students decided to make moccasins for local babies born in the Aundeck Omni Kaning and Sheguiandah First Nations.
From sewing to beading, students spent countless hours perfecting every detail to ensure these babies would have a warm welcome into the world.
“Moccasins are an important part of Indigenous culture,” says Little Current Public School Principal Christy Case. “By handcrafting moccasins, our students are providing babies with a positive start on their journey through life.”
“I extend a special thank you to teachers Casey Boisvert, Mary-Anne McGraw, and Joanne Peltier, Aboriginal Support Worker Justin Francis, Elder Elaine Nahwegahbow and volunteer Debbie Francis for their leadership efforts,” Ms. Case added. “I would also like to thank Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation and the Noojmowin-Teg Health Centre for generously donating the leather for the moccasins.”
