Following a meaningful lesson connected to the book “Maddi’s Fridge” by Lois Brandt, elementary students from around the district are putting empathy and kindness into action.

The story of Maddi’s Fridge helped students explore important lessons about friendship, compassion, and helping others in times of need. Through classroom conversations and activities, students reflected on how small acts of kindness can help create a stronger, more caring school community where everyone feels supported and valued.

Inspired by those lessons, Roessleville, Saddlewood, and Forest Park Elementary Schools will be collecting snacks to help support students and classrooms throughout the school day. Many classrooms keep extra snacks available to ensure students stay energized, focused, and ready to learn.

“Activities like this help our students understand the importance of empathy, inclusion, and caring for one another,” said Roessleville Principal Marybeth Tedisco. “Our students learned that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference, and this snack drive is a wonderful example of our school community putting those lessons into action.”

Families who would like to participate are encouraged to donate individually packaged, nut-free, non-perishable snacks to any of the district’s elementary buildings. Suggested items include:

• Animal Crackers
• Goldfish
• Pretzels
• Fruit snacks
• Applesauce pouches

All donated items should be individually wrapped, nut-free, and checked for expiration dates before being sent in.

Donations can be brought to school with students or dropped off at the main office between June 1 and June 5.