Recently, at Indian Mills School of the Shamong School District, the second grade team of Kristi Almond, Pam Girgenti, Kara Lafferty, and Lauren Shipton joined the organized efforts of Kim Fox and Heidi Curtis to do something for those less fortunate and teach their students a lesson in giving and community during this special time of the year, when family takes on a special meaning.
This year, IMS conducted a fall/ winter drive on behalf of Linda’s Hats for Hope Initiative. This organization has been collecting and producing winter hats, scarves, afghans and baby blankets for the homeless and working poor since 2011. Their goal is to gain enough momentum to open a branch in each state, gain an international presence, and deliver 50,000 winter hats by 2021. No small task; however, with the support of the students and teachers of IMS, that goal is within reach.
Under the direction of these teachers, second grade students donated a mix of hats, mittens, and scarves, totaling 72 items. These garments were packed and shipped to Linda’s Hats for Hope Initiative: South Jersey. When asked about the significance of the program, Kim Fox was quick to offer praise for her team and her students; “You can’t be too proud of these young children. Once you explain the plight that others find themselves in, especially during the winter months, they do what they can to help. It is truly inspiring. The smiles on their faces attest to the pride they feel, having done something for someone in need.”
