December 22, 2009

Merton Williams students 'behind the scenes' make holidays warm in 2009 Teddy Bear Project 

Hilton's Merton Williams Middle School Teddy Bear Project made holidays warm for both local children and for soldiers this month.  Students collected over 100 items for the Soldier Care Packages; additionally, they donated $120 and purchased the items for six deserving children in the Rochester area. The children ranged from 22 months to 15 years of age. The gift of giving took on a life of its own when one of our parents put a collection jar, with the wish list attached, at her cafe. They were able to collect an additional $26 for the Teddy Bear Project. From seeing that, a woman in the community offered to buy one item for each of our six Teddy Bears!" said members of Team Verite.

The students also brought in gently used items to be given to the shelters for children and families in transition. In this way, their generosity will continue after the holiday season ends. The students made us proud to be part of their lives for these two brief years. We know that they will go on and continue to make a difference in the community and the lives of those less fortunate.