One thousand, four hundred full boxes of cereal in the shape circular train toppled like dominos at Sands Elementary School, thanks to the efforts of student Anika Kini.
After the event, she generously donated the assembled train to charitable organizations, including the Salvation Army, Mamas for Mamas, and the New Hope Church in Delta.
Anika and her sister Aditi operate The New Horizons Foundation, an organization committed to orchestrating various philanthropic endeavours over the past six years, locally and globally. Despite her sister’s relocation to Ontario for university, Anika remained steadfast in her dedication to community service, particularly amidst the prevalent issue of food insecurity. Believing that the cereal box domino train would be an enjoyable and visually captivating project and a means to support those in need, she embarked on this endeavour.
Anika’s resourcefulness was evident in securing the necessary cereal boxes for the project. After receiving a $3,500 grant through the Intercultural Youth Services Corps Program, she collaborated with Nature’s Path to procure a bulk order of cereal, facilitated by a 25% discount. Additionally, SPUD contributed to the cause by aiding in delivery, resulting in a total collection of 1,400 cereal boxes, including donations from Sands Secondary students, family, and friends.
Anika explained her recipient choice, “I chose the Salvation Army, Mamas for Mamas, and the New Hope Church in Delta due to their impactful work in addressing community needs.” She highlighted the Salvation Army’s dedication to aiding individuals facing various challenges, Mamas for Mamas’ support for mothers and families in poverty, and her connection with the New Hope Church stemming from childhood observations of community food assistance.
Anika aimed to foster community spirit at Sands Secondary by collaborating with school staff and involving fellow Fit for Life program students in setting up the domino train. Their efforts culminated in an hour-long setup process, followed by the exhilarating cascade of falling boxes over two minutes.
Anika’s initiative serves as a beacon of goodwill in supporting the community’s most vulnerable members. For further details on Anika and her sister’s commendable initiatives, please visit their website: The New Horizons Foundation,