Kids hungry to help those less well off
Matamata Intermediate students combined their efforts to raise more money than any other Waikato school for this year’s 40 Hour Famine.
Almost half of the school’s 360 students took part in the famine and raised an impressive total of $8738 for World Vision.
Year 7 student Locryne Tiddy was the top fundraiser and set a new school record with his contribution of $618.
His class had a sleepover in the library during the famine and ate nothing but kumara, potato, carrots and water.
‘‘My stomach got a bit sore,’’ said Locryne.
‘‘The best part about it was when they fried the potatoes.
‘‘I like doing it because it’s always fun and challenging.’’
Deputy principal Lorraine Stiles has been co-ordinating the event at the school for the last 26 years.
‘‘It has become a tradition in the school,’’ she said.
‘‘I’m always really proud of the children for making that commitment.’’
The school sponsors a boy in Tanzania through World Vision and has committed to help support him until he reaches medical school.
World Vision schools relationship co-ordinators Charney Rooza and Aleisha Hadwin have visited the school several times this year.
They help the students to understand why children in developing countries need sponsorship and how the money they raise is spent.
‘‘It’s really important for children to get that feedback and see that they are actually making a difference,’’ said Mrs Stiles.
World Vision was impressed at the dedication the school has shown to supporting the charity.
‘‘It’s awesome to come to a school that really understands what it is to help others,’’ said Ms Rooza.