Qatar Food Drive Supporting Gaza

As part of FoodHI's initiatives, a food drive was organized at the Swiss International School in Qatar (SISQ) during Ramadan. The donations were directed to Gaza through the Qatar Red Crescent Society. This initiative was led by Cyrine Badji, the WHI State Director of Qatar, with support from Mrs. Claire Olivier, an MYP INS and cultural studies teacher at SISQ.

The food drive was a collaborative effort involving a team of 6th graders. With guidance from Mrs. Olivier and Cyrine Badji, the team managed the collection and promotion of donations within the school community. The team spread awareness announcements and classroom visits, explaining the importance of the cause to encourage participation and where students were able to find donation boxes around the school. Donors were asked to contribute non-perishable food items that had not reached its “sell-by” date yet, canned goods, grains and pasta, powdered milk or shelf-stable milk alternatives, and personal care items, such as toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, sunscreen, baby diapers, feminine hygiene products, and dish soap. The food drive ran during Ramadan, which lasted a little over four weeks.

The food drive successfully collected a significant amount of food donations, which were handed over to the Qatar Red Crescent Society for distribution in Gaza. The food drive not only provided essential food and supplies for a region in need but also provided an opportunity for the 6th grade volunteers to participate in a meaningful project.

Mrs. Claire Olivier, who played a crucial role in organizing the event and getting the 6th grade volunteers involved in the activity, emphasized the importance of community service in teaching students empathy and responsibility. This project counted as a Service As Action activity for the 6th graders, a mandatory IB MYP requirement. She congratulated the 6th graders for their enthusiasm and dedication, knowing that their efforts would help those in Gaza.

"It was great to see the school community come together for this cause. The 6th graders were dedicated and enthusiastic, and everyone's contributions will make a real difference for those in Gaza," said Mrs. Claire Olivier.

The FoodHI Qatar Food Drive at SISQ was a successful initiative that provided much-needed food supplies to Gaza. Led by Cyrine Badji and Mrs. Claire Olivier, with the support of 6th grade volunteers, the drive helped WHI's mission to improve global food security.