Aboriginal students at Carleton University are partnering with the Odawa Friendship Centre on a series of fundraising lunches to raise money for remote First Nations communities.

The poor conditions at the Attawapiskat First Nation helped rally the Aboriginal youth in Ottawa to start their own fundraising efforts.

Caroline Lalonde, a student at Odawa's Urban Aboriginal Alternate High School, said the lunches are her way of contributing.

"Friends of mine and students come from those backgrounds," said Lalonde. "I've heard the stories and I've always wanted to do something, but was never able to because I didn't know how."

Aim to raise $5,000

The group hopes to raise $5,000 through a series of lunches and other events, such as art auctions, to contribute to True North Aid, a non-profit group providing support and humanitarian aid to Northern communities.

Hillory Tenute with Carleton University's First Peoples' Council said it's just the first step of what is a long process.

"This isn't something that gets fixed overnight. This is something that's going to take a really long time in which to focus and fix," said Tenute.

Community activist Lynda Kitchikeesic Juden said the young people should be commended for doing their part to raise awareness of the conditions of the communities.

"I think in all fairness, [Canadians didn't] know, or they haven't known up until now. Now they know, so let's change it," said Kitchikeesic Juden.