By: Nikhila Puri, Zahabia Shahpurwala, and Mika Albrecht

“It’s good to give,” said Madame Kalubi, the middle school French teacher. Every year, The Seven Hills Middle School contributes to The Caring Place, a nonprofit organization that helps children and families in need. The middle school community comes together to donate to these families. “We are in a privileged position to help a lot of people,” said Madame Kalubi. Haskia Avanigadda, a student council member and avid donor, donates because “It’s good to give to people in need… we are lucky to be able to give things to others that we don’t need.” It never hurts to donate, and even a little can go a long way. 

So what does the Caring Place do? It’s a nonprofit organization that provides basic necessities for struggling families and people in the Pleasant Ridge and Kennedy Heights area. These suburbs are very close to the school, so it’s amazing that the middle school can impact an area close to home as well. For example, the Caring Place provides clothing, bus passes, toys, sanitary supplies, and even drops off Christmas gifts at local churches for families in need. “There’s a real sense of joy on kids’ and parents’ faces when they realize they’ll be able to give and receive gifts,” said Mr. Waskowitz, head of the middle school. 

The middle school community has been donating to the Caring Place for over 30 years. “Service is an important thing to do,” Mr. Waskowitz said. “I am always amazed at how much we give… It’s a reflection of our community.” Mr. Waskowitz stated that he enjoys the drive a lot, and his favorite part is “loading the items we donated into trucks.” Helping others will never go unnoticed or unappreciated. 

This year, the Caring Place would like toys, board games, puzzles, or books that are in good condition so that families can give and receive gifts this holiday season. Hasika says “You can drop off all your items off at the front desk, or in the box at the front of the door.” It ends before Winter break, so be sure to take part in this incredible time for giving back to the community.