Thursday, November 23, amidst the Thanksgiving celebrations in the United States, the Maranatha Academy in Blue Hills went beyond the traditional festivities, engaging in a heartwarming community outreach initiative.
Teachers and students of the academy collaborated to assemble and distribute 54 care packages filled with essential food and clothing items to members of the surrounding communities.
Michelle Arthur, the Vice Principal, shared with NewslineTCI that the funds for purchasing the items were primarily sourced from the generous contributions made by the students. She said this act of giving back has become a tradition for Maranatha Academy, with community projects being an integral part of the school's identity over its 21-year existence.
The care packages, which she said has been a symbol of love and kindness, included staple items such as rice, sugar, canned foods, and noodles. Additionally, some packages contained clothing items, contributed by families associated with the school. Arthur emphasized that the initiative aimed to make a positive impact on the community, especially during the Thanksgiving season.
Before distributing the care packages, teachers and students conducted a thorough community assessment to determine the number of recipients and their specific needs. Arthur explained that a special focus was placed on families with young children, as these packages included toys and snacks tailored for them.
As part of the school's commitment to its students, Arthur mentioned that each year, ten packages are distributed internally to selected students from each class. The remaining packages are then distributed to the broader community. This year's outreach was described as even more significant than the previous one, with plans for a similar event in the upcoming term.
Highlighting the unique aspect of Maranatha Academy's approach, Arthur expressed the excitement among the students to participate in these outreach programs. She pointed out that as a Seventh Day Adventist School, the engagement goes beyond material assistance—each interaction includes prayers for the families. Additionally, the care packages include spiritually enriching elements such as books and Quarterlies.
She pointed out that the initiative reflects the school's growth and commitment to giving back to the community, showcasing the values of compassion and solidarity instilled in the students of Maranatha Academy.
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