Sweet Dreams

First and second graders, at the Charles E. Schwarting Elementary School in the Plainedge School District recently participated in the Pajama Program. The purpose of this program is to give needy children a new pair of pajamas and a bedtime story. The students collected 140 pairs of pajamas along with donated books. They decorated the boxes of pajamas with stickers creating beautiful and colorful packages. Samantha shared, “I felt like a good citizen, because I donated pajamas to someone in need.” The packages were delivered to the local chapter of the Pajama Program in Amityville.

The elementary students wore their pajamas to school and watched a video explaining the project. When asked to share their compassion and thoughts for the children in the film, Sara, a first grader said, “They must feel forgotten.” Shea, through tears said,” I can’t imagine not having pajamas and I’m so happy that I will make another child feel safe and warm like me.” Nicholas exclaimed, “I feel amazing doing this!” Their principal, Mrs. Thearle, visited each classroom reminding the children that simple acts of kindness, such as smiling at others, or in this case, donating pajamas, can make a tremendous difference in another person’s life.