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At St. Joseph Catholic Academy, service is more than just an idea—it’s a way of life. One of the most heartwarming ways our community comes together each year is through the Baskets of Joy Project, an initiative dedicated to bringing Easter cheer to children in need. What began as a small act of kindness has grown into a cherished tradition, reinforcing the values of generosity, faith, and compassion.
The Mission Behind Baskets of Joy
Baskets of Joy was created with a simple but profound goal: to brighten Easter for children who might not otherwise receive a basket filled with treats, toys, and essentials. Each basket serves as a reminder that they are loved and valued. Originally founded outside of SJCA, our school embraced the opportunity to carry on this incredible mission last year, ensuring that it remains a meaningful part of our community outreach efforts.
A School-Wide Effort
One of the most inspiring aspects of Baskets of Joy is the level of student involvement. From collecting candy donations to assembling and distributing baskets, SJCA students play a crucial role in making this initiative a success. Events like the Candy War, where middle school and high school students compete to bring in the most individually wrapped candy, add a fun and competitive spirit to the project while reinforcing the importance of giving.
Beyond the students, faculty, staff, and families also step up to contribute. Donations pour in from all corners of our community, and volunteers dedicate hours of their time to assembling and delivering the baskets. It’s a beautiful display of teamwork and shared purpose.
It's amazing to see the students, parents, and community come together for a greater good. I love the excitement the students exude when they see the progress we're making! -Katie Tanke, SJCA Middle School Teacher and Baskets of Joy Moderator
Impacting the Community
The impact of Baskets of Joy reaches far beyond our school walls. The project has provided hundreds of Easter baskets to local children, delivering not just candy and toys but also a message of hope and love. These small but meaningful gifts make Easter morning extra special for children who might not otherwise have one to celebrate.
Parents and guardians of the recipients often share their gratitude, emphasizing how much these baskets mean to their children. Likewise, the students who help assemble and distribute the baskets leave with a greater appreciation for service and the joy of giving to others.
Looking Ahead
As SJCA continues to carry the Baskets of Joy Project forward, the goal is to expand our reach and impact even more children. Increased donations, community partnerships, and student-led initiatives will ensure that this tradition thrives for years to come. With the generosity and commitment of our SJCA family, the spirit of Easter will continue to shine brightly in the lives of many.
How You Can Help
If you’d like to support Baskets of Joy, there are several ways to get involved:
Donate: Contributions of individually wrapped candy, small toys, and basket supplies are always needed. Wishlists are available at Amazon and Oriental Trading for an easy way to support the program.
Volunteer: Join students and faculty in assembling baskets on Saturday, April 12th in the Upper Campus Cafeteria from 10am-12pm!
Through the Baskets of Joy Project, SJCA is not only making Easter brighter for children in need but also instilling lifelong lessons of kindness and compassion in our students. As we continue to grow this initiative, we are reminded that even the smallest acts of generosity can make the biggest difference.
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