ANTIGONISH: St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) students made a positive impact Sept. 7, as they raised funds for the Antigonish Affordable Housing Society during Charity Day 2024.
This event, part of StFX’s Orientation Week and X-Fest Experience, highlights the university’s commitment to supporting the local community.
“This day is all about giving back to the community that welcomes us so warmly,” StFX Students’ Union President Francisco Chang said. “Charity Day is about encouraging students to make a difference in their community, that is why the Students’ Union decided that Charity Day had to be an integral part of the Orientation (X-Fest) Week experience.”
In previous years, the Students’ Union raised funds for Shinerama, the largest post-secondary fundraiser in support of Cystic Fibrosis Canada. However, last year they shifted their focus to a local cause, launching Charity Day to support organizations within the Antigonish area.
This year, their focus is being put on affordable housing.
“Affordable housing is an issue that affects many communities across Canada, and it has a tremendous impact on rural area like Antigonish. It affects students, it affects town folks, it affects newcomers,” Chang explains. “The Antigonish Affordable Housing Society has been consistent in their progress, and they actively explore new ways to address the ongoing need for affordable housing locally. They have committed to contribute to the development of community housing in Nova Scotia, especially in rural areas of the province and that is why the Students’ Union chose them this year.”
On Sept. 7, first-year students, guided by the upper-year Orientation Crew, were set up at fundraising stations around town, including locations at Walmart, Sobeys, Superstore, Canadian Tire, the Farmers’ Market, and key intersections on Main Street.
StFX’s O-Crew were out in full force, cheering and engaging with the community to encourage donations.
Charity Day is more than just a fundraising event – it embodies the spirit of community.
Elizabeth Yeo, vice president students at StFX and chair of the Good Neighbors Working Group, praised the initiative.
“The upcoming Charity Day organized by our Students’ Union is a powerful example of StFX students living the Xaverian values of community and responsiveness to the needs of our community through service,” Yeo says. “Their dedication to addressing the need for affordable housing in our community demonstrates the tremendous positive impact our students have as they embody the spirit of good neighbors. We are incredibly proud of their commitment to making a meaningful difference right here in Antigonish.”
The Good Neighbors Working Group, which includes representatives from the university, the Town of Antigonish and the Municipality of the County of Antigonish, and local organizations, is dedicated to building strong relationships and addressing local challenges like affordable housing.
Chang emphasizes the importance of community support, expressing gratitude for the generosity that will help make a difference on Charity Day.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the support we receive on Charity Day. It allows us to make a meaningful impact and give back to the community that has welcomed us so warmly.”
With this year’s Charity Day, StFX students are helping to address a critical issue in their community, creating a legacy of service and support from the very start of their university journey.
“Charity Day is more than just a fundraising event,” Chang said. “It’s a celebration of community spirit and the start of a tradition of giving back.”