Huge Hearts, Little Hands

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Twenty-six, first grade students from LaFrancis Hardiman Elementary School in Wyandanch visited the local senior citizen center to spend quality time with elders from their community. Each child was partnered with a “senior buddy” to work on a craft project, sing songs, and play bingo. The students and seniors created a bond sharing stories of their lives, families, and dreams. “My senior buddy gave me a big hug when we won BINGO," said Darnell. Xzoria exclaimed, "My senior buddy said she wanted to adopt me!" As laughter filled the room, it was apparent that the trip was a great success for both generations and helped to strengthen ties between young and old. Teacher Pam Zaccaria shared, "It is so amazing to see faces light up when the scholars and seniors are interacting. The scholars are still talking about it! Thank you Newsday and Optimum Community for supporting such a wonderful experience for my first grade class."