Staff and students from High Road Schools in the Mid-Atlantic region recently came together to participate in a community winter clothing and food drive event, hosted by the “Responsive Schools Initiative.” The Initiative focuses on social justice, responding to community concerns, and the promise to always address the needs of both students and staff. 
In collaboration with The Heartlight Foundation, which aims to make a difference in the lives of the disadvantaged, underserved, and disregarded, students from each participating school teamed up to stuff 30 bookbags with winter apparel and non-perishable snacks to benefit those experiencing homelessness and families in crisis. All apparel and food was donated from school teachers, students and their families.
“It was a special day coming together helping our community and giving back,” said Louis Guertin, M.Ed., regional director, Mid-Atlantic. “I thank everyone who volunteered for their support and for the continued collaboration from the region’s schools.”
The bookbags, along with packed lunches, books, warm clothes and coffee and donuts, were made available for local families at a table outside the Mary Randall Center in Elkton. The center provides a warm breakfast to all of those who are without food and shelter in Cecil County.
“Events like this help teach our students about ways they can be stewards of the community,” said Guertin.