St. Cecilia students aid ‘Keep the Heat On’
PAWTUCKET-There was nothing wrong with the boiler at St. Cecilia School last week. But with many Rhode Islanders finding it difficult to afford to heat their homes this winter, students here held an unusual fundraiser designed to give them a greater
appreciation of their plight.
Together, the students raised nearly $350 for the diocese’s ‘Keep the Heat On’ campaign by bringing in $1 each to dress down for the day. They were also encouraged to wear hats, scarves, gloves or mittens during classes to remind them of what it is like for some individuals and families who have to turn the thermostats down in order to keep their heating bills in check.
“We’re doing this so we can learn how it feels to be cold when you’re inside,” said fourth-grader Brett Camara.
Their teacher, Sister Mary Martin, said she also learned to empathize more with the homeless as a result of the experience.
“I run from my car to my house,” she said. “I can’t imagine sleeping outside [in such cold].”
First grade teacher Francine Treglia said the lesson learned was a valuable one, even for her young students.
“It’s a wonderful way to show them values, the values we teach here at St. Cecilia’s, to love God, to love others, to love yourself.”
Eighth-grader Chandler Hayes said the experience was an empowering one for her and her peers.
“As students, we often feel we can’t help, but this fundraiser gives us a way to help out and do something positive.”
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