As we enter the first week of Advent, the spirit of giving is alive and well at St. Brother André School. This year, the Advent season has been beautifully marked by the school’s “Giving Back to Our Community” initiative, which is bringing students, families, and staff together in a heartwarming act of service.
St. Brother André wanted to foster a sense of community and inclusion this holiday season. As they celebrate the birth of Jesus, they want to ensure that everyone feels welcomed and part of their school family. In these challenging times, they sought a simple but meaningful way to bring joy and hope to others. The Birthday Celebration Kits provide families with the non-perishable ingredients to make a cake and celebrate the birth of Jesus, fostering togetherness and hope.
The project began with each homeroom being assigned a specific item to donate, with the goal of assembling Birthday Celebration Kits. These kits are thoughtfully designed to bring joy to those in need by providing all the essentials for a meaningful celebration. From candles to cake mix, each kit is packed with items that help ensure every recipient can enjoy the happiness of a memorable birthday, regardless of their circumstances.
In each kit, the students included a unique but simple treat: a can of soda and a box of cake mix. While this might sound like an unusual combination, it’s a quick and easy way to make a delicious cake with just two ingredients. The cake mix contains all the dry ingredients needed, including a rising ingredient like baking soda. When a can of soda is added, it activates those ingredients, making the cake rise and come out light and fluffy. This two-ingredient cake is simple to prepare and has the added benefit of being egg-free, making it a great option for those with allergies or families looking for a plant-based dessert.
The generosity of St. Brother André’s students and their families has been incredible. Thanks to their contributions, they were able to assemble 80 Birthday Celebration Kits — a true testament to the school community’s love and commitment to making a difference. These kits were then donated to three local organizations: The Gloucester Food Cupboard, St. Mary Home, and Annunciation of the Lord Parish, where they will bring joy to families and individuals in need.
Special thanks go to the families and school staff who generously contributed to the success of this project. Their kindness is a beautiful reflection of the values being nurtured at St. Brother André School: compassion, community, and the spirit of giving.
As we continue our journey through Advent, this initiative reminds us of the true meaning of the season—the gift of love, joy, and hope. By giving back to our community, we celebrate and share it with others in big and small ways.
