Espanola – In a world frequently characterized by the relentless pace of daily life, one young girl is making remarkable strides in enhancing her community.
Nine-year-old Aivah St. Amour is not a conventional third-grade student; she epitomizes the qualities of compassion and philanthropy typically expected from adults. Her recent initiative, “Hopping for Hunger,” in partnership with The Espanola and Area Health Team, stands as a testament to her steadfast commitment to assisting those in need.
This food drive, which commenced on February 14 and will continue until March 31, 2025, aims to gather non-perishable food items to support the Espanola Helping Hand Food Bank in anticipation of the Easter holiday. Aivah’s efforts reflect her belief that every individual deserves access to fundamental necessities, particularly during significant occasions such as Easter, which is often associated with family gatherings and celebrations.
What inspires a child like Aivah to undertake such a formidable task? As she articulates, “I want to help people. Everyone should have enough food, especially kids like me.” This childlike sincerity conveys a profound understanding of her surroundings and speaks volumes about her character. Despite her youth, Aivah has cultivated a deep sense of empathy, which she actively channels into her philanthropic efforts.
Organizing such an event can be quite intricate. “First, I had to ask the town of Espanola if it was okay to conduct a food drive. Then we had to talk with the food bank to see if they wanted to participate. The health team is helping with the collection of food, and I will pick up the items in my wagon,” Aivah explained. Her enthusiasm for the event is palpable.
Aivah’s compassion is not only evident in her current food drive but also in her various contributions to her community. She recently participated in the LaCloche 2024 Art Show, where her artistic talents were recognized with an honourable mention.
Aivah has a passion for pageants and recently competed as Junior Miss LaCloche Foothills 2025, contributing to a collective fundraising initiative that raised $17,000 for the Northern Ontario Families of Children with Cancer (NOFCC). This notable achievement underscores not only her artistic abilities but also her commitment to causes that transcend her individual interests.
In addition to her fundraising endeavours and artistic pursuits, Aivah has played a crucial role in the establishment of the “Kindness Krew” within the Rainbow District School Board. This initiative promotes acts of kindness among students, thereby fostering a spirit of community and support. By spearheading such projects, Aivah is not only effecting positive change in the lives of others but is also inspiring her peers to emulate her example.
The community's response to Aivah’s initiatives has been overwhelmingly positive. Local leaders and residents alike have lauded her as a role model for young individuals. Her commitment to helping others at such a young age is inspiring.
Rebeka Lee Lord-Lindsay, the proud mother of Aivah, expresses her deep admiration for her daughter, stating, “From a very young age, Aivah has consistently exhibited a compassionate nature that sets her apart. It has always been evident to me and to those around her that she possesses a generous heart.”
As Aivah leads her food drive, she eagerly anticipates engaging with community members to discuss her mission and encourage participation. “I want everyone to know they can help too,” she expresses, her eyes alight with enthusiasm. “Even small donations can make a big difference.”
“Remember, kindness is contagious,” she adds. Her determination and heartfelt compassion stand as a powerful reminder that it is never too early to effect meaningful change.
As the “Hopping for Hunger” food drive progresses, it becomes evident that Aivah’s influence will extend well beyond the mere collection of food items. She is cultivating a culture of kindness and empathy within her community, demonstrating that extraordinary individuals can emerge from the most unexpected circumstances.