Seaford Manor Elementary School students are spreading holiday cheer, as they donated dozens of new toys for charity. This year, the school partnered with Desirae’s Darlings, a Merrick-based organization that provides the toys to underprivileged children.
Two large collection boxes were filled during the toy drive, which ran from Nov. 24 to Dec. 10. On the last afternoon, members of the student council held a holiday sing-along at the end of the day, standing near the front entrance on risers flanked by the boxes. Students, families and staff could make final donations while enjoying festive tunes.
The toys were picked up that afternoon by Desirae’s Darlings founder Joe Gallart, who created the organization in memory of his daughter, Desirae Marie Gallart. All of the donations will be given to the United States Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots program.
The student council, led by advisers Kristin Nelson and Lisa Perrone, made signs which were hung around the school to promote the toy drive. Their efforts paid off.
“It was a lot of toys, and we are so grateful for everyone who donated and helped spread cheer to the less fortunate,” Ms. Nelson said.
Student council members Danny Cronin and Lucia Ingenito, both fifth graders, enjoyed being able to help people in need during the holiday season.
“It went really good,” Danny said of the toy drive, to which he and his younger brother donated. “It was a good way to give back to the community. It’s important because people for the holidays all deserve something, and it’s a good time to bring joy to everybody.”
Photo captions:
1: Seaford Manor Elementary School held its annual toy drive, donating items this year to Desirae’s Darlings.
2: Fifth graders Lucia Ingenito and Danny Cronin were among the student council members who helped promote the toy drive.
3: Afterschool on Dec. 10, the last day of the toy drive, student council members sang holiday tunes to make a final push for you donations.
Photos courtesy of the Seaford School District
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