About five years ago the need to renovate the Food & Nutrition labs was brought into focus and feverish attempts were made at the local (ICHS) level to look into options for resurfacing counters. Suffice it to say that this venture did not yield success.
As always God does marvellous things and the Toronto Chapter of Alumnae saw a vision not of two renovated labs but of two new state of the art labs. This would see the relocation of the ‘new’ lab situated across from the staff room, to the space adjoining the ‘old’ lab.
Under the slogan “Rebuilding for the Future” the Toronto Chapter launched many fundraising campaigns. This major project drew the participation of our other Alumnae Chapters. ICHSAA Florida and Jamaica Chapters were joined by the Washington and International Chapters to complete the financing of the Project. Two refrigerators were donated by the New York Chapter. The total project cost was in excess of US$200,000.00, the largest project undertaken by the joint Chapters of the ICHSAA.
The official opening of the ICHS Food & Nutrition Labs was held on March 22, 2019 and included a tour of the labs as well as the viewing of the beautiful Donor Wall. In attendance were the inductees into the ICHS Hall of Fame (2019), members of the ICHS Board of Management, Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, representatives of all ICHSAA Chapters, members of the ICHS HSA’s executive body, donors, staff and students. The labs are named in honour of our beloved Vice Principal Aba Polson (RIP) who was our school’s main link with the Toronto Chapter during planning. For years she dedicated her Tuesday afternoons to the Baking Club, getting students as well as staff who had no prior experience, to produce delectable treats.
Members of the project team that worked pro bono were Guila Bernal (Architect), Robert Lee (Quantity Surveyor), Hugh T. Gordon (Engineer) and Peter and Raqueline Mair (Project Managers). These persons received appreciation awards for their investment in the project.
ICHS is grateful to each person and organization whose support helped see this project to completion. Kudos to the members of the ICHSAAs. What love for your alma mater! Ad Astra Per Aspera!
