A hot cup of cocoa on a winters day can go a long, long way.
Some would say, perhaps, all the way to Africa.
At the Af Cafe in Chilliwack secondary school's main hall, you can get that cup of hot chocolate, or some apple cider, or a peppermint mocha. The volunteers at the counter will graciously take the cash, tuck it away, and know it's making a difference halfway around the world.
All the proceeds from the cafe go toward the Wanted Children Foundation and the Jaaja Barb's Home of Angels. Both foundations are close to CSS teacher Steve Anderson's heart, and likewise he's emotionally invested in the cafe.
So he was happy to see it modified and improved this school year, with a new design including a friendlier counter space. And the students who run the cafe are enjoying the upgrades as well.
While those behind the counter know where the money goes, it's possible some of the cafe's customers don't know.
But they should, Anderson says, because those few dollars spent at lunchtime are making a world of difference. The African Relief Club, which was started about 15 years ago, was able to send $2000 to both the foundations they support last year.
"That $2000 would have bought food, water and medication for our orphanage," says Anderson. He visits the orphanage, run by his own daughter Courtenay, every summer for several months.
In the coming months, Anderson says the cafe will include more signage and information about the foundations they support, to help students understand what a big difference a small contribution can make.