In the Schools, Giving Thanks

It seems like more than ever before, Livingston Public Schools are showing the true meaning of giving with a bounty of relief drives this Thanksgiving.

 At Heritage Middle School, students packed more than 40 Thanksgiving food baskets and turkeys for families in our own community.

 “There seems to be so much needed from so many corners,” said Heritage Principal Pat Boland. 

At Livingston High School, the executive director of Wyonnna’s House was overwhelmed by the clothing donated for Essex County families in need.

Based in Newark, Wyonna’s House serves children who have been sexually and physically abused. The numbers are staggering: 500 in this year alone, said Evelyn Megil.

Looking over the new and gently used clothing with members of the school’s National Honor Society, Megil said, “I hope you know your work in really important … Already you’ve made an impact for these families.” 

For Sandy relief, numerous projects are underway. At Heritage, for instance, the school has been involved with a student to student initiative for Lavallette Public School, which was displaced because of the storm. Heritage is collecting school items and gift certificates for Staples and Office Depot.    

And in every school, students are contributing to the “Stuff the Bus” campaign to help families affected by Hurricane Sandy in Ventnor and Atlantic City. The bus rolls on November 30. “Please give where you can,” Boland said, “and let your children help where they can.”