North Bellmore Students Are Generous Givers

Part of the North Bellmore School District’s mission is to inspire students to contribute to the global community. This holiday season, children have been doing just that by holding collections for food, toys and clothing.

At Saw Mill Road Elementary School, a food drive will benefit local families in need, with donations going to the Community Cupboard at the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District’s Brookside School. Each grade was assigned specific nonperishable items to bring in to ensure that a variety of food was collected. Members of Students Against Destructive Decisions created posters, which were hung throughout the hallways to promote the drive.

The Student Council organized a pajama drive, an idea brought by third-grader Luke Fischetti after successfully doing it on his own last year. The pajamas will be sent to the Ashley Wade Foundation, which supports children with chronic illnesses. Luke said he came up with the idea to “help kids in need and brighten their holidays” and was proud to have his classmates join the effort this year.

Newbridge Road Elementary School hosted a toy drive for the John Theissen Children’s Foundation, with students asked to bring new, unwrapped toys. Generosity is the character trait of the month at the school, and Theissen spoke to the children about his organization and the importance of giving to the less fortunate.

Schools throughout the district partnered with the Bellmore Lions Club to collect hats, scarves, gloves and other winter clothing accessories, which will be distributed to children living in shelters in Nassau County. The district and PTA Council also worked together to hold a Coats for Kids drive. Students were asked to bring in new or gently used jackets to benefit Long Island families.

“It’s always heartwarming to see the community come together in support of those who are in need,” said Newbridge Road Principal Denise Fisher. “It’s nice that we’re teaching the students at a young age how to give back.”

Photos: North Bellmore School District