December 3, 2008

CONNETQUOT TEACHERS ASSOCIATION
WARM HEARTS – WARM HANDS

Ronkonkoma, NY - The Connetquot Teachers Association (CTA) today announced the successful conclusion to the 2008 effort to collect gloves, hats and scarves for the Children’s Center at the Cohalan Courthouse. “Again, motivated by the wonderful organization and dedication of Kristine Abbinanti the CTA was able to deliver over 500 hats, mittens, scarves and socks today.” Abbinanti is a 5th grade teacher at the Cherokee Street School, and the catalyst for this worthwhile event.

Ms. Abbinanti explained that in the summer of 2007 she had been exploring possible community service projects for her students. She had the opportunity to meet Mrs. Wendy Meyer, a teacher at the Children’s Center at the Cohalan Courthouse in Central Islip, NY. Mrs. Meyer had explained the need for hats and mittens for the children that pass through the Children’s Center. The Center provides a safe area for youngsters while families are involved in court proceedings.

According to Ms. Abbinanti the "… Family Center is such a worthwhile organization that the Connetquot Teachers Association is proud to partner with them to make a difference in our community. As educators we are in the business of caring for children, and wanting the best for them.” The delivery of more than 500 hats, mittens, socks and scarves will ‘warm their hands and hearts’. According to Mrs. Meyer “… when the youngsters leave the Children’s Center they are given a book to take home. Thanks to the CTA, they will also be able to take home a hat and gloves!”

To collect donations, bins were set up in each school in the Connetquot School District (Ronkonkoma-Bohemia-Oakdale) and teachers, students and members of the community were asked to participate. Even retired Connetquot teachers pitched in again this year.

What a wonderful way to spread the spirit of this holiday season, by helping to keep children warm and safe during this special time of year. Congratulations to all the special people who made this community project possible, and Happy Holidays to all.