Middle school students from Orlando Gifted Academy showcased the power of compassion and the desire to make a positive impact, regardless of age.
It all started with a service-learning class taught by Mary Anne Dunne, service learning middle school teacher at Orlando Gifted Academy. In the course, students discuss societal issues within the Orlando area and research solutions. Following a discussion about homelessness and hunger in Central Florida, the students wrote proposals and voted on ways to give back to the community—many of the initiatives they chose supported Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.
While on a tour of the warehouse at Second Harvest during a volunteer outing, the students heard about the opportunity to host a virtual food drive. They instantly wanted to add a virtual food drive to the traditional food drive they were already doing.
The support from parents, teachers, and staff was incredible. Their generous contributions of monetary donations and nonperishable foods made a substantial impact. The students managed to raise over $2,000 and collected 250 food items. That’s more than 8,000 meals!
“It was a wonderful experience for me to take my students to Second Harvest to volunteer. I believe the experience will be one that these students will always remember,” said Mary Anne.
A virtual food drive is a great way to make an immediate impact on our neighbors facing hunger. For every $10 raised, Second Harvest Food Bank can provide 40 meals to families, seniors and children.
