‘Tis the Season of Giving!   

While people take care of their holiday shopping, they should think about giving to those in need as well. 

If you’ve walked through the main lobby, you’ve probably noticed the Giving Tree with its lists of wanted items like shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, deodorant, hats, gloves, and socks.  Maybe you’ve noticed the gift-wrapped cardboard boxes beneath the tree, and the sign for The Ronald McDonald House Charities.  Have you seen any toys in the Guidance Office lately? What’s this all about?

Our school works with The Emerson Police Department annually to collect unwrapped toys for children in need.  Mrs. Diebner, the Guidance Office Secretary and Toy Drive/Charity Collection Coordinator, states, “Every year it is most touching and humbling to see the toys piled up in the Guidance Office as a reminder of the good-heartedness of our school community.”

She goes on to say, “Please bring your unwrapped donation to the Guidance Office before the end of day on Monday, December 16th.  Also, there is a collection happening for the Ronald McDonald House to benefit the parents of children receiving medical care.”

It fills many people’s hearts with warmth to see the school’s community participate in such a generous acts.

Speaking of generous acts, the Paws for a Cause Club is asking for toys and materials for our furry friends. The club is collecting clean sheets, towels, blankets, and similar items. Newspapers, paper towels, and unscented baby wipe are also welcome, and should be deposited in the boxes on the table in the main lobby of the school.

The club is looking for animal-specific items as well: crates for dogs, shoe boxes and yarn for kittens, and toys for the hamsters, rabbits, and guinea pigs. You can even donate peanut butter, as long as it does not have xylitol (a sweetener that is toxic for dogs).

Thanks to your kindness, animals can look forward to a wonderful blessing of items and toys that can be donated to either Mrs.Cariddi’s or Ms.Pena’s room by December 6th!

It’s the Season of Giving, and there’s so much to give to many generous organizations.

Stay holly and stay jolly!