DELAND | Students in VPK – 8th grade at Saint Peter Catholic School learned a lesson in philanthropy in an exciting and fun way. Encouraged to purchase their favorite cereal with their allowance money, they brought more than 500 cereal boxes to school for a game involving a STEM exercise. The cereal donated to local charities helped feed many.

Coordinated by the school’s Parent Teacher Association, Principal Charlotte Funston said, “It was an innovative way to teach our children to give back, share their love for others, care for the less-fortunate, and to learn about science, engineering, and mathematics.”

Students gathered in the beautiful school courtyard Friday, May 14th and lined the school’s hallways and surrounding area with the cereal boxes, organized in small circles and rows. Students enjoyed toppling them in a domino fashion. A flag ceremony followed recognizing the student’s philanthropic achievement.

Savannah B., an 8th grader who will soon graduate from Saint Peter shared, “This was a meaningful event at our school that we will remember for a long-time. I am grateful to my classmates, teachers, and Saint Peter’s School for encouraging me to live my faith.”

The students loaded two pick-up trucks filled with the cereal and an additional five boxes of canned goods. The Neighborhood Center and The Bridge in DeLand received the donation in gratitude to help feed the homeless and families in need.

Saint Peter Catholic Church has a regular team of volunteers who serve at both non-profit organizations. Father Gilbert Medina, pastor of St. Peter’s, noted the biblical precedent in Prv 22:9, “’… for he who is generous and gives food to the poor will be blessed.’ Our students and parishioners strive to be the hands and feet of Christ. It is a privilege for the Saint Peter community to share and care for others.”

By Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic, May 25, 2021