ORLANDO | This Advent season, students at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School embraced the true spirit of Christmas by participating in a heartwarming service project.

Partnering with One Heart for Women and Children, each classroom, from Pre-k3 through eight, “adopted” a child in need to make their Christmas brighter.

A total of 16 classes sponsored 16 children, each the same age as the students in the homeroom. The organization provided names and wish lists. In a week, students and families collected gifts, including video games, books, board games, clothes and gift cards.

The National Junior Honor Society played a key role, running the collection and packing the gifts. On Dec. 11, representatives from One Heart for Women and Children picked up the wrapped donations.

“The students and families of St. Charles believe the true spirit of Christmas is not about receiving, but about giving to those who need it most,” said Lisa Bobowicz, fifth grade teacher and NJHS advisor.

First-grade teacher Tammy Dorazio added, “The children and parents loved bringing the gifts in for Heather, the 6-year-old girl we sponsored. The parents especially appreciated being able to talk at home about helping others in our community.”

Service is a hallmark of Catholic schools throughout the diocese, and this project is a shining example of service in action.

Principal Jamie Rodriguez summed up the experience, “This project truly brought our community together in the spirit of giving. Seeing our students light up knowing they made a difference in the lives of children just like them is a reminder of the joy and hope we can spread when we come together as one family.”

By Linda Caldwell Special to the Florida Catholic, December 18, 2024