On February 27th, a group of our high school students embarked on a four-day mission trip to Orlando, Florida, where they dedicated their time and energy to serving the community.

Our first service project took place at the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, where we contributed to the fight against hunger by assisting in the preparation of 10,000 meals for those in need. This food bank partners with schools in five different counties to ensure that students who may not have food for the evening or weekends can receive healthy meals and snacks free of charge.

Next, we volunteered at UP Orlando (United Against Poverty), where we helped organize and stock shelves for their food assistance program. This initiative allows individuals and families facing economic hardship to select food and household items that best suit their needs. The grocery program is a vital part of United Against Poverty’s mission, supporting those at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Eligible members receive free membership, enabling them to access the program as often as needed while contributing a small handling fee—helping them save two-thirds of their household food budget.

Our final service project was at The Sharing Center in Longwood, FL, where we assisted at their intake center, sorting donated clothing and household items. The Sharing Center not only provides a shopping alternative for individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness but also generates income for critical programs such as job training, financial education, digital literacy training, a food pantry, and crisis support services.

Through these mission projects, our students had the opportunity to demonstrate their faith by serving others with kindness and compassion. They worked tirelessly, without complaint, embodying the love of Christ in their actions. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and the positive impact they made in the lives of those they served.

-Kristen Horton, Elementary Principal