Middle School Donation Drive Includes Homemade Holiday Cards for Volunteers of America’s Shelter Residents

Middle School Donation Drive Includes Homemade Holiday Cards for Volunteers of America’s Shelter Residents

Volunteers of America is one of the Rochester charities to benefit from the annual school-wide “Mix It Up and Make a Difference” donation drive at Bay Trail Middle School in Penfield.

Foundation House is one of Volunteers of America’s permanent supportive housing shelters in Rochester for homeless individuals with disabling mental or behavioral health conditions. “We are thrilled that the students, under the direction of Helen Gage, have gotten behind this project and donated so much food for Volunteers of America’s residents,” says Danielle Morehouse, Foundation House’s Intensive Case Manager.

In addition to donating non-perishable items for residents of VOA’s Foundation House, students crowded around tables set up in the cafeteria to make Thanksgiving and Christmas cards for the residents of Volunteers of America’s housing program. “The cards were a great boost for our residents,” said Morehouse. “They really appreciated the kind notes and drawings from the students.”

Helen Gage, a math teacher at Bay Trail Middle School, went a step further and came in to cook a Thanksgiving dinner for the residents along with her daughter, Marilyn Fox. In addition to donated turkeys, occupants of Foundation House were treated to homemade macaroni and cheese, stuffing, and potatoes for the holiday. “Having the food, especially around the holidays, makes things easier and more joyful for residents,” said Morehouse. “It is really heartwarming to get this support.”

People who are interested in helping VOA’s housing programs can support them on their website www.voaupny.org/caring-gifts