Former Habs tough-guy Georges Laraque paid a visit to Lauren Hill Academy Tuesday to personally thank students who raised thousands of dollars in an effort to aid Haiti.
Laraque, who is of Haitian origin, said the tragedy in his family's home country has put his own life into perspective.
"In life, there is stuff that is much more important than hockey," he said.
The students said they were touched by the devastation in Haiti and felt they needed to take action.
"Obviously it's a disaster and the whole community wanted to help out and Lauren Hill wanted to help out too," said student Gabriella Daly.
The youngsters raised more than $6,500 in less than a week and offered it to World Vision, Laraque's chosen charity.
The money will go toward providing immediate relief and building a new Haitian hospital.
Jeremie Olivier, who works for World Vision, told the students their efforts were much appreciated.
"It's truly making a difference. Children are going to be fed because of you," he said.
The school's principal, Claude Danserau, is proud of his young fundraisers.
"They're very, very involved and concerned and it's important. They are part of society," he said.
As for Laraque, he made a promise to the students before leaving.
"I will come back with you and play whatever sport you want to play and see how good you are."
He said he would do the same for any other Montreal-area school that raises $6,000 or more for Haiti.
