Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Smiles were visible through mouthfuls of pizza on June 14 as 165 students and 20 educators

savoured their first meal in 30 hours. Just a day before, Secondary 5 students from Polyvalente

Le Carrefour gathered in the cafeteria to embark on the 10th edition of Moisson Outaouais’ 30-

hour hunger challenge. Joined by students from Polyvalente Nicolas-Gatineau, de l’Érablière and

Collège Nouvelles-Frontières, the benevolent bunch were able to raise $7,094, breaking last

year’s record.

“What I feel today as I look at you all is immense pride for your commitment and respect for the

organization,” said Marie-Ève Théberge, principal at Polyvalente Le Carrefour.

The challenge, which is organized by Moisson Outaouais, was first initiated in 2015 by Éric Noël

de Tilly, a teacher at Polyvalente Le Carrefour. The educator wanted to make teenagers aware of

the problems of hunger in the region by exercising solidarity with those who suffer from food

insecurity. The major fundraiser is in partnership with Moisson Outaouais, who transforms every

donated dollar into $10 of food.

“You have all done something that will allow you to see how others live,” added Steven

MacKinnon, Gatineau deputy, while addressing students from all four schools. “There is hunger

in our region, in our city, in our country and it is disheartening. There are plenty of people you

will meet who lead the battle against food insecurity, and you are now all a part of it.”

Djibril Paquet is one the 165 students who volunteered to participate in the challenge. Like his

peers, he committed 30 hours, sacrificing his comfort during exams and just a week before

graduation to raise funds.

For Paquet, 30 hours without food is insignificant compared to what those who face daily hunger

endure. He admits the experience was challenging, nonetheless.

“Since we were able to drink water, the first few hours were really easy, but right now, the

hunger is really setting in,” he said smiling while rubbing his stomach.

Students spent the evening doing various activities like hide and seek across the school,

volleyball and open gym hours. Educators also used their time with students as an opportunity to

host discussions surrounding food insecurity.

“I hope the new cohort participates in large numbers,” Paquet added. “Don’t be scared to restrict

yourself for 30 hours—there are no dangers and it’s an amazing experience.”

Photo caption

Photo #1:

Students from Polyvalente Le Carrefour, Polyvalente Nicolas-Gatineau, Polyvalente

de l’Érablière and Collège Nouvelles-Frontières celebrated the end of their 30-hour hunger

challenge to raise funds toward easing food insecurity. The 165 students and 20 educators were

able to raise over $7,000. (DD) Photo: Djeneba Dosso