SWEDESBORO — A fifth grade class at Charles G. Harker Elementary School is making a difference by helping local families this winter.
Inspired by an article titled, “One Person,” fifth grade teacher, Mrs. Tara Roberto, and her class learned about young adults such as Malala Yousafzai, Emma Gonzalez, and Boyan Slat, who were advocates for change and making a difference.
Shortly after reading the article, Roberto shared an immediate request from Angels Community Outreach, located in Pitman, to help four families who were currently without heat. Motivated to make a difference, her students and families went right to work by going through their coat closets, making donations, buying jackets, hats, and gloves.
In less than a week, the fifth grade class raised almost $2,000 by shoveling neighbor’s driveways, babysitting relatives, and donating money out of their own savings accounts. In addition, the class collected 46 new winter jackets, 22 pairs of socks, 5 pairs of snow boots, and so much more.
Their monetary donations helped supply families with space heaters, filled an oil tank for a month, and even helped provide temporary housing for a growing family who was living in their car.
“Not only did my students make a difference,” said Roberto, “they were able to see the direct impact that they made. Each one of them is making this world a better place.”
“No one should go cold this winter,” said Superintendent Dr. Kristin O’Neil. “We are so proud of Mrs. Roberto and her class by showing love and compassion for those in our community.”
