Although hunger can be found in virtually every county in our state, it doesn’t mean action can’t be taken to fight it. This year, our students at Weston Elementary School were challenged to think of those less fortunate by organizing a food drive that began in September and culminated on November 22nd.
Students brought in canned goods, boxed meals and many more non-perishable items to Weston on a daily basis. Each week, classes competed to bring in the most food. Donations were weighed every Friday and the class with the biggest donation won a prize. First grade teacher, Laura Landau, coordinated the students’ efforts throughout the program.
On Friday, November 15th, staff members Tracey Reynolds, Cynthia Cohrs-Brandt, and myself were featured on Magic 98.3 to discuss the Students Change Hunger Program. We were able to deliver the students' donation from Weston School and receive a guided tour of the Community Food Bank of NJ. It was an amazing and humbling experience.
The generosity and selflessness that our students displayed was overwhelming. It is a testament to the community of Manville. By the end of the program, our school donated over 1,300 lb. of non-perishable food items! All donated food from the program directly benefited the Community Food Bank of New Jersey.
Mrs. Cohrs-Brandt (media specialist) said, “I was humbled and in awe by all of the good work being done at the food bank and how the Weston students are helping in that effort. It truly touches the heart.” Mrs. Tracey Reynolds (kindergarten teacher) was proud of her students’ effort, “My kindergarteners have been very generous during the Students Change Hunger food drive. They have really internalized the lesson that we should help people in need and have brought bag after bag of food throughout the past weeks.” To learn more about the Students Change Hunger Program click here. To donate to the Community Food Bank of New Jersey click here.
