Our School

Crusaders participated in and supported several community service projects this holiday season. Since Thanksgiving, stockings have been stuffed, items have been collected and the spirit of giving back has permeated through the building. Some projects have completed while one will continue on into January.

The Peer Ministers headed the Giving Tree project. Earlier in the school year, Holy Cross entered a partnership with a United Way up starter program. They, in turn, connected the school to the Salvation Army’s Adopt-a-Family Program.

A Christmas tree was placed in the main lobby. The branches were adorned with ornaments which gave the age of the child and their gift ideas.  Each student picked an ornament and purchased what that child wanted for Christmas.

“We collected 30 gifts for the Adopt-a-Family program,” said Kyle Piatak, Director of Campus Ministry. “Our young people wanted to do a giving tree and connect with those in need.”

Another community service group, Helping Hands, led the Stockings for Seniors project. Personal care and holiday items were collected for the residents of Apple Rehab in Watertown, CT. Donated items included tooth paste, tooth brushes, soaps, lotions, socks, puzzle books, playing cards and more.  

“Our students have led this project for many years,” said Jodie LaCava McGarrity ’93, Director of Counseling/International Program Director. “Every year, we look forward to visiting the Apple Rehab residents and bring them some holiday cheer. All of the collected items are definitely put to good use.”

The National Honor Society launched many service projects over the last few months for Greater Waterbury Interfaith Ministries. They raised $1000 through the annual Turkey Day penny wars, the Homecoming raffle  and the Powder Puff Football game. NHS member, Jenna Tracey ’23, recently brought a check to GWIM.

Last, but not least, the Athletic Council is currently running the Project Warmth Project. “We are asking students and faculty to bring in jackets, hats and mittens to give to those in need in the local area,” said Jadan Izzi ’23, a member of Athletic Council. “We are going to gather all the donated items in January after our Christmas break.”

Most service projects stem from the vision of our students. They bring the ideas to the adults who help them facilitate each initiative. “Our young people want to do something in the spirit of giving gifts to those who go without. That is the joy of our community service programs at Holy Cross. A lot of it is informed by what the youth want to do.”