A student at Gault Institute among the best in Canada

Magalie Cyr, a student in grade 6 at Gault Institute, has just placed fifth overall in Canada in the annual competition "The Meaning of Home", which supports the organization Habitat for Humanity Canada.

The young girl was surprised that she placed, but she admitted right away that she was happy with her performance because it meant she would receive an iPod and a $5,000 donation would be made in her name to a Habitat affiliate of her choice. In addition, the students at the school were offered a pizza lunch on Tuesday, February 22.

"I got ready by writing in my personal journal. I'm proud of my success, but I'm nervous because now I have to recite my poem in front of the whole school," says the girl who dreams of having a career as a fashion designer. 

Magalie's parents are full of pride and enthusiasm. "I'm very pleased with her," admits her father, Mathieu Cyr. "This is a big accomplishment."

For Magalie's mother, Charlène Guimont, her daughter's success is a significant source of satisfaction. "She writes a lot at home. But it's really something to see the results."

Since its launch in 2007, the national competition has received more than 35,000 compositions from grade 4 and 5 students and has helped raise more than $900,000  for Habitat for Humanity Canada affiliates throughout the territories and provinces .

"Every time I participate in a construction project for Habitat, I'm surprised at the scope of this organization," declared Stuart Levings, President and Chief Executive Officer of Genworth Canada, Contest Sponsor.

About Habitat for Humanity Canada
Established in 1985, the national, non profit organization Habitat for Humanity Canada is working to build a world where everyone has a decent and safe place to live. Its mission is to build affordable housing and promote home ownership as a way to break the cycle of poverty in Canada and throughout the world. More than 63,000 volunteers participate in this mission every year along with 56 affiliated organizations from coast to coast.

(Translated by - Cathleen Johnston)