Local English Catholic school teachers were dressing down for a good cause.

Led by the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA) all employees of the St. Clair Catholic District School Board participated in a week-long ‘dress down event’ in November, in exchange for a donation to two local women’s shelters.

In all, staff raised a total of $17000, including a $1,000 contribution from the local Catholic Principals’ Council of Ontario.

Over the last few weeks, staff hit the stores, ensuring they crossed off every item on wish lists in support of women and children served by the Chatham-Kent Women’s Centre and the Women’s Interval Home of Sarnia-Lambton.

This past Friday, four large vehicles were loaded with toys and other essentials to be delivered to the two organizations.

“Thanks so much to our tremendous staff for their generosity and kindness,” says Wayne Bechard, President, OECTA St. Clair – Elementary.  “Together we were able to help many local families to have a much brighter and merrier Christmas this year!”

“I want to thank Wayne Bechard, Chad Coene and their Executive Members for their compassion in once again taking the lead on this important initiative; and for giving all of us an opportunity to be the hands and feet of Christ, as we lift up those in need in our communities,” says Scott Johnson, Director of Education.