St. Mary Catholic School’s Sandwich Patrol Makes 1,250 Lunches for Those in Need

(Mokena) - St. Mary Catholic School students continue to make a meaningful impact through Sandwich Patrol, a student-led service initiative focused on addressing food insecurity in the local community. Guided by Mrs. Tracy Cokinos and Mrs. Danelle Bernas, students in 5th through 8th grades partnered with Catholic Charities of Joliet to prepare and donate lunches to those in need. Each lunch included a sandwich, granola bar, chips, fruit, and water.

Throughout the year, students donated food, assembling lunches, and learned about the realities of food insecurity. Representatives from Catholic Charities, Stephanie Hook and Derek Schultz, visited St. Mary to share insight on the needs within the community and the impact of service. They also introduced students to DayBreak Shelter in Joliet, which offers emergency housing, meals, and support services for individuals and families facing crisis situations. Motivated by what they learned, students set out to prepare 1,000 lunches this year. Instead, they surpassed their goal and made 1,250 lunches with the generous support of parents, grandparents and community partners, including Fleckenstein’s Bakery, which donated fresh bread. Over the past two years, Sandwich Patrol has now provided a total of 2,250 lunches.

“Sandwich Patrol has shown our students what it truly means to serve others with purpose,” said Mrs. Tracy Cokinos. “They understand that even a simple act, like preparing a lunch, can make a real difference in someone’s day, and that lesson has made a lasting impression on all of us.

Stephanie Hook of Catholic Charities of Joliet reflected on the partnership, sharing, “The commitment from St. Mary Catholic School is truly meaningful. These students are not only providing meals, but they are also bringing hope and dignity to those we serve. Their generosity is felt well beyond each lunch they prepare.”

Through faith, service and compassion, St. Mary Catholic School’s Sandwich Patrol has not only helped provide lunches, but has also instilled in students the values of empathy, community, and stewardship. This initiative serves as a reminder that when we come together to serve others, we build a stronger community. St. Mary Catholic School remains committed to living out its Catholic values and fostering a spirit of giving, all while making an impact on the lives of those in need.

St. Mary Catholic School, serving students from preschool through 8th grade, is committed to nurturing academic excellence, faith formation, and a spirit of service in a supportive Catholic environment. The school celebrates a 76-year tradition of building strong values, a dedication to service, and a tight-knit community. Families interested in learning more about St. Mary or enrolling their child can contact Danelle Bernas, Marketing and Enrollment Coordinator, (dbernas@stmarymokena.org).