Students at CHSD170's Greenbriar School are currently involved in a pair of activities designed to help the less fortunate in their community.
In association with South Suburban PADS, the South Suburban Humane Society, and the Humane Society of Northwest Indiana, the students are collecting essential items to ease the discomfort of those in need - both human and animal.
Fifth-grade students in Ellen Wise's Social Studies class recently discussed possible ways of providing service to our community.
The discussion eventually decided that reaching out to and assisting local humane societies that service our area would be an excellent way to make a difference for the good.
"We called and emailed the South Suburban Humane Society and the Northwest Indiana Humane Society to see if they needed help in providing for the animals in their care," Wise said.
"The students explained that they wanted to begin a project that would have a positive effect on the lives of the animals that, for whatever reason, are now housed in the shelters."
Both humane societies were thrilled that the students wanted to become involved in activities that would provide food, toys, and other essential items for the animals.
The students began gathering donations, making posters, decorating boxes, and spreading the word about the activity to involve their fellow students, parents, and school staff in the endeavor. The students plan to gather as many donations as possible and drop off the gifts in time for Christmas!
"I love seeing our students think about our animals in need," Wise said. "This was their idea, and I'm excited and grateful to help them fulfill their dream."
In appreciation of the students' efforts, the South Suburban Humane Society has offered to visit the school with various animals who will benefit from the students' generosity.
In the other activity, the students at the school are partnering with South Suburban PADS to collect new socks for men, women, and children for distribution before year's end.
"With the holiday season upon us, our students and staff decided that collecting socks – one of the most requested items at shelters throughout the country – would be an excellent way to offer help to those in need," said School Counselor Micaela Bush.
"The Greenbriar School family is proud of the commitment by our students, their families, and our staff to make a difference in the lives of those in need," she concluded.