An update on Operation Hope from Mr. Collins and Mrs. Pellet.

One would think “heading back to school,” is the last thing on the minds of parents and children in Roxbury. However, the Roxbury School district is planning on going back to school not in Roxbury but in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana. Children, teachers and community members have been shopping for back to school items in order to assist the students of St. Bernard Parish Louisiana as they begin their first day of school in January.

Three hundred backpacks were filled with school supplies, CD’s, letters and books to wish the students and teachers well as their schools reopen after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. The Roxbury School district is providing numerous fundraising efforts within the schools and community in an effort to provide St. Bernard Parish with the necessary support financially and emotionally to rebuild their community and schools.

As we approach this holiday season, it’s often a time to reflect on how fortunate we are to provide for the children in our community. We know there will be warmth, food, books and supplies to provide a solid academic foundation for our students. The families in Louisiana are now struggling with the basics of shelter, food and a need for learning materials and school supplies as they try to begin their school year.

As co-chairs for Operation “Hope,” it our goal to continue to build strong student leaders with the support of our community by providing service to a community in need. Please know you have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of many people by participating in the fundraising efforts for Operation “Hope!” The district has designated a fundraising account for Operation “Hope” and financial contributions and corporate sponsorship is greatly appreciated.

On behalf of the district, we thank you for your contributions thus far and look forward to the positive impact we will have enriching the community of St. Bernard Parish with the generosity of the Roxbury Community.