Generations Foundation and Santa spread holiday cheer at Our Lady of Pompei

December 12 was a cold winter’s day, but there was nothing but warmth, smiles and good cheer in Ahuntsic at Our Lady of Pompei Elementary School’s holiday breakfast, sponsored by the Generations Foundation. 

A delicious breakfast of scrambled eggs, waffles, sausages and toast was prepared by teachers and parents, and served to students. Adrian and Natalie Bercovici, founders of Generations Foundation, were on hand to greet students and see them enjoy their meals. 

The talented Rosemount High School band, led by music teacher Debbie Best, had students and staff singing their hearts out and clapping along to their favourite Christmas tunes. Our Lady of Pompei Principal Steven Rebelo joined EMSB Deputy Director General Evelyne Alfonsi and EMSB Regional Director (East Sector) John Pevec in celebrating the students and the generosity and important work of Generations Foundation.

Students were excited by the much anticipated arrival of Santa, with his bag of gifts in tow. All 161 Our Lady of Pompei students met with Saint Nick and received a gift especially for them. Gifts were donated by the community-at-large to Generations Foundation, and Mrs. Bercovici ensured that all gifts were wrapped and labeled with each student’s name.  

“We do this every day. Once a year we try to make it special,” said Mr. Bercovici, explaining that Generations Foundation serves breakfast at 120 schools and centres every day throughout the school year. “There is nothing more beautiful than seeing a child run around and play, sit with Santa, and eat all that they can,” he added. 

After a morning of fun and full bellies, students returned to their classrooms with their gifts in hand, back to work for a few more days before Christmas finally arrives!