Greenacres Middle students send Christmas cheer to Hurricane Sandy victims
Students at Greenacres Middle School are spreading holiday cheer with a little glitter and glue.
Eighth graders in Laura Jorgensen's English class spent Thursday morning decorating poster-sized Christmas cards that will be sent to the victims of Hurricane Sandy just in time for Santa's arrival.
The project was through a partnership with TownePlace Suites in Bossier City, who has collected canned food items to send to displaced victims this month.
Tina Condie, Guest Services Manager, said they wanted something extra special to send with their donation so they turned to the school for help.
“We brainstormed this idea of bringing kids in because they are so creative,” Condie said. “This is just a little pick-me-up for them.”
Each poster was decorated to the student's liking. There was a reindeer with a bright red nose, an alligator with a sparkling Santa hat and Mardi Gras beads and a jolly ole' snowman with his black top hat. While the themes varied, the students wanted to make sure every poster sent the same message – Santa Claus is still coming to their town.
“We want them to know they aren't left out and that there are people that care about them,” eighth grader Areej Shawakha said. “Everyone should have a merry Christmas.”
Jorgensen said the project is a fun, meaningful way to get students connected to what's happening around the world.
“They may not remember everything I teach them, but this is something that they will always remember,” Jorgensen said.
TownePlace Suites is still accepting donations of non-perishable food items as well as household items, including laundry detergent and personal hygiene products. Sherry Stuckey, Director of Sales at TownePlace Suites, said it's the perfect time of year for sharing and spreading joy to others.
“It's important to teach the values of giving back and helping others,” Stuckey said. “This is a great example of how the hospitality business and local children can make an impact by working together.”
TownePlace Suites is located at 1009 Gould Drive in Bossier City. For more information on the food drive, call 741-9090.
