Blennerhassett Elementary Students Donate 2,000 Food Units
PARKERSBURG, WV – June 14, 2024 – Blennerhassett Elementary students, showing remarkable community spirit, collected 2,000 units of food. The food drive, a response to increased need, benefited the Old Man Rivers Mission. Participants, guided by their educators, sought to address food insecurity through generosity. The initiative, driven by federal funding cuts’ influence, successfully promoted the crucial role of community support going forward.
Blennerhassett Elementary Students Donate 2,000 Food Units to Old Man Rivers Mission
The students of Blennerhassett Elementary demonstrated remarkable community spirit by collecting 2,000 units of food for the Old Man Rivers Mission.The food drive, which ran from May 19 to June 4, aimed to address the increasing need for food assistance in the region.
Did You know?
Food banks like Old Man Rivers Mission frequently enough face increased demand during the summer months when school meal programs are not available, placing extra strain on families.
A Principal’s Pride
Principal Kristin Garretson expressed immense pride in her students’ efforts. I am so proud of our students. The food collected went above our expectations. while students were excited to earn points, the main goal was for them to learn to help and care about others.
Garretson emphasized that the primary objective was to instill a sense of compassion and duty in the students.
Addressing a Critical Need
The initiative was prompted by a call from Old man Rivers Mission, highlighting the urgent need for food donations due to federal funding cuts. This situation underscored the vital role of community support in sustaining essential services for families in need.
The Ron Clark House System: Fostering School Spirit and Generosity
To encourage participation, the students were divided into four houses, each representing a distinct virtue: Altruismo (givers), Amistad (friendship), Isibindi (courage), and Reveur (dreamers). Each donated item earned a point for the student’s respective house, fostering a friendly competitive spirit.
- Altruismo: representing givers, this house emphasized selfless acts and generosity.
- Amistad: Focused on friendship, this house promoted collaboration and support among students.
- Isibindi: Symbolizing courage, this house encouraged students to overcome challenges and take initiative.
- Reveur: Representing dreamers, this house inspired creativity and innovation in their contributions.
The Ron Clark House System,implemented in the fall,serves as a framework for positive reinforcement and party of good behavior and attitude.It aims to cultivate school spirit, strengthen relationships, and create a sense of belonging among students.
The competition encouraged kids to give food to those in need.
Aubrynn Balderson, Blennerhassett Elementary Student
Points were awarded for various achievements, including academic performance, attendance, good sportsmanship, and perseverance. The House of Isibindi emerged as the top donor, earning an additional 50 points for their outstanding contribution.
Student Voices: The Impact of Giving
Several students shared their thoughts on the food drive, highlighting the importance of helping those in need.
we donated food to help people live.
Kolton Collins, Blennerhassett Elementary Student
It is a good way to help people in need.
Brenna Cronin, Blennerhassett Elementary Student
We are helping hungry people.
Omri Campbell, Blennerhassett Elementary Student
A Community United in Compassion
The success of the food drive underscores the strong sense of community and the willingness of West Virginians to support one another during challenging times. The students of Blennerhassett Elementary exemplified this spirit, demonstrating that even small acts of kindness can make a notable difference in the lives of others.
