College Students Assist Seniors in Winter Preparations

Sault College students are stepping up to support seniors in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, as winter approaches. Through the annual Trades Day of Caring, students provide free assistance to homeowners with essential winter preparation tasks. This initiative has been running for over a decade and aims to help seniors remain in their homes during the colder months.

Among the beneficiaries is John Walsh, an 87-year-old resident who has lived in his east-end brick bungalow since 1965. Walsh expressed his determination to stay in his home, stating, “I’m not leaving my house. They’ll bury me here. I’m not going into a home.” With the help of Sault College students, he prepares for winter by storing hoses, turning off exterior faucets, and sealing windows.

This year marks the second time students have helped Walsh with leaf raking, making a significant difference for him and his wife, Marilyn, who has been married to him for over 60 years. “It’s a nice service,” said Walsh, a great-grandfather of three. “It’s good of them to do that.”

Students like Jay Page, a second-year engineering technician student, participated in the initiative. Page noted, “It’s a benefit for (seniors), and it’s a benefit for us because we’re able to give back to our community and we get to connect with people. That’s what it’s all about. We show that we care.” Page was encouraged by Sam Biasucci, president of SalDan Construction Group, to participate in this year’s event.

On Saturday afternoon, Page was joined by fellow students Dawar Hamid, a first-year construction techniques student, and Pallvi Pallvi, a second-year civil engineering technician student. Together, they were part of a larger team of over 40 students, organized into 15 groups, who collectively assisted 42 homeowners.

Most residents required help with raking leaves, a task that has become increasingly popular over the years. Marc Pilon, a professor and co-ordinator of civil engineering and construction programs at Sault College, commented that this is the most properties he has seen the Trades Day of Caring assist since he began working at the institution in 2019. Each team typically works on about three houses, maximizing their impact on the community.

The event is organized in partnership with the United Way Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District, led by Rayna Evoy, who serves as the director of development and community impact. This collaboration highlights the importance of community engagement and support for seniors, ensuring they can remain in their homes as winter sets in.

Through initiatives like the Trades Day of Caring, Sault College students not only contribute to their community but also gain valuable experiences that reinforce the spirit of service. This program reflects a vital connection between the younger and older generations, fostering a sense of care and responsibility within the community.