Students stuffing backs with stuffed animals for Nursing home residents

Tis’ the season of giving at Fairview Elementary. Kindergarteners worked hard to fill gift bags for the residents of Fleshers Nursing and Retirement Home. Teacher Mary Wommack is excited that all the kindergarteners are able to give back to those in need this Holiday season. 

“We wanted the kids to connect with the elders of our community,” Ms. Wommack said. “This is our chance to spread joy to others and bring them a piece of the Fairview happiness we have here.” 

Ms. Wommack is proud of the work the five and six year olds have done to make this project special. Families donated the supplies needed to fill each bag. She said it's a crucial time to teach them about not just receiving gifts, but giving them as well.

“It’s been heartwarming to watch the students get excited about helping others,” she explained. “Witnessing the excitement each child has as they give back has made this a wonderful learning experience. They know exactly who they are giving to.” 

As a way to introduce the students to helping others, Ms. Wommack read the class A Plan for Pops by Heather Smith

“After reading this amazing book we were all crying,” she said. “It truly is a special book that every family should read.”

This project means a lot to Ms. Wommack. She remembers her grandmother’s giving spirit and sees her as a personal  role model. 

“My grandmother dedicated her life to serving others,” Ms. Wommack said. “She worked with children, and later in life she served in nursing homes as an Activities Coordinator. I was fortunate enough to have spent a lot of time helping her as she gave her time and resources to those throughout the community. At a young age, I witnessed the need for a spark of joy in the nursing homes. I learned a lot from my grandmother about giving back to the community, and that’s what I want to instill in my students.”