The second-grade class at Gladwyne Elementary School recently collected donations of food, toiletries and other essential items before gathering in the cafeteria on Valentine’s Day to assemble bags of supplies in a loving effort to help those-in-need!

The second graders assembled a total of 100 bags of food and 100 bags of supplies. Half of the food bags were given to Eldernet of Lower Merion, which provides a safety net for older and disabled adults to help them live in dignity and safety in their own homes for as long as possible. Eldernet also provides support and resources for local families who may be facing food or financial insecurity.

The remaining bags were given to a non-profit called The Giving Project for Children (TGP4C), which was founded by Gladwyne second grade teacher Jennifer Gilbert, who later distributed the items in Philadelphia with a group of parents and children. Founded in 2008, TGP4C aims to help parents, administrators and teachers incorporate the study of community, giving and philanthropy within the classroom.

“One of the many things we try to teach our kiddos is that one act of kindness, no matter how small you think it may be, can have a tremendous impact upon another and therefore has the ability to make change! And that is what we are doing!” said Gilbert. “I truly believe these lessons are paramount to their success as people and our success as a community!”

After completing their packing duties, students then created their very own Valenttine's Day cards for their teachers, family and friends!

To view a slideshow of images of student’s assembling packages, click through the slideshow below!