Fifth graders at Emerald Christian Academy in Eugene, Ore., found three ways to share Jesus’ joy during the holiday season. First, they filled two shoe boxes with toys, warm mittens, and personal items for Operation Christmas Child, an organization that delivers Christmas shoe boxes to needy children around the world.
Next, they planned and presented a program for residents at an assisted-living center in Cottage Grove. Their program included piano solos, group singing, a readers' theater, and several instrumentals. In addition, students gave hand-colored place mats to many of the residents, on which the students had written Bible verses.
Lastly, students decided to set a limit of $1 on the annual class gift exchange and donate gift money to Heifer International, a world organization that provides livestock and training to families around the world. Students and their families donated $200, which students voted to use to purchase a llama, a hive of bees, and a flock of chicks.
“I think it was a great idea,” said Candace Joyner, fifth-grade student, “because we were helping people who don’t have much.”
Ben Tokatly and Louis LaRiccia play a duet at the assisted-living center.
ECA fifth graders and teacher presented a special program at an assisted-living center.
Brianna Waleke and Morgan Housel pack one of the Operation Christmas Child shoe boxes.
