Palos West Students Donate Over 1,000 Pairs of Mittens, Gloves

Students at Palos West Elementary in Palos School District 118 recently collected 1,035 pairs of mittens and gloves as part of the school’s annual mitten drive, now in its 34th year.

According to Principal Jennifer Peloquin, students organize the collection each year and donate the mittens and gloves to organizations in need. This year, a donation was made to Joliet School District 86.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the students and families who contributed to this year’s mitten drive,” said Ms. Peloquin.

“Your thoughtful contributions not only provide warmth to those in need but also set a powerful example of compassion and community spirit. Thank you for making a positive impact on others and for warming the hearts and hands of many children this winter.”

Peloquin recognized Palos West Second Grade teacher Nicole Judd for her hard work in organizing the annual fundraiser with the assistance of students at the school.

“Thank you to our amazing community for your generosity and support,” said Ms. Judd who noted that it was retired Palos West teacher Barb Plucinski who organized the school’s first mitten drive 34 years ago.

“Her vision and heart have made such a difference and it’s been an honor to continue this tradition of spreading warmth and kindness to those in need,” she said.

Photo

Top row left to right: Omar Awad, Sean Mendoza, Shepard Lavery, Hudson Davids, Emmett Cox, Ishmael Younis, Nicole Judd, Colin Bender, Emma McDougal, Brooke Bender

Bottom row left to right: Julia Vinh, Yara Hassan, Maya Fakhoury, Reagan Carroll, Sadie Griffin, Brecken Bleskin, Presley Kwiecinski-Locascio, Nolan Malczewski, Julia Shaikh Khalil, Grace Poore, Omar Atieh, Blaine Wieczorek