Students across the Eastport-South Manor Central School District ushered in the holiday season with a series of food drives and charitable initiatives aimed at supporting families in need.
From elementary hallways to the Jr.-Sr. High School, the spirit of giving was on full display as classrooms, clubs, and community groups rallied to collect thousands of items ahead of Thanksgiving.
At the Jr.-Sr. High School, members of the National Honor Society and Junior Honor Society partnered with the Lion’s Heart service group to donate to Long Island Cares’ Harry Chapin Food Bank.
In early November, students stationed themselves outside the King Kullen grocery stores in Manorville, Eastport, and Center Moriches, gathering nonperishable goods from local shoppers. Their efforts helped stock food banks preparing for increased demand heading into the holiday season.
Advisors said the hands-on service project not only supported families, but also helped students understand the impact of community engagement.
At Dayton Avenue Elementary School, the annual Turkey Trot Food Drive once again drew enthusiastic participation from students, staff, and faculty. Children arrived with bags filled with cans, boxes and other pantry staples, all destined for the local Presbyterian Church Food Pantry.
The event served as both a charitable mission and a teaching moment, reinforcing the values of generosity and gratitude. Sixth grade volunteers assisted in delivering the donations, proudly helping transport the items that their school community had worked so hard to collect.
Across the district, the coordinated efforts reflected a shared commitment to supporting neighbors during a joyous time that can be rather difficult for many.
As one district summary noted, “With grateful hearts and generous hands, the district’s students made a meaningful difference for families in need this Thanksgiving season.”