As the government shutdown leaves families without support, U.S. history and government teacher Emma Miller and her classes decided to step up.
Miller started a food drive with her classes, driven by the desire to create good Catholics and help families in need.
“A really cool part of my job is helping create good Catholic citizens and with the shutdown and everything, food pantries have been low,” Miller said.
Students in Miller’s classes collected 1748 items for the food drive showing their compassion for families in need.
“I think her doing this is really cool and helps us be involved and want to donate stuff,” junior Abby Tlamka said.
Miller was surprised by her students’ generosity after seeing how much they contributed to the food drive.
“I kind of underestimated the generosity of my students,” Miller said. “I didn’t have a specific goal, but my expectations have been blown out of the water.”
Seeing the difference her students were making, Miller was proud to see the students giving back to the community.
“I love seeing my students and their big hearts giving back to their own community,” Miller said.
These efforts by the students have shown how valuable it is to recognize the needs of others.
“I think it’s important to show that you’re not selfish with your belongings,” Tlamka said. “And to recognize that other people have needs that we need to fill.”
Those who contributed hope that their donation will truly impact someone and help a family in need.
“I hope it’s able to give someone a meal so they can spend time with the people they love,” Tlamka said.
This food drive also reminds people that kindness still exists, even in tough times.
“I hope it gives some hope that there are good people out there, and people are always there for them,” junior Elise Tassemeyer said.
All donations will be going to the Catholic Social Services food pantry.
