Students Stuff Stockings for Local Charities

Editor's Note: The following was provided by Phoenixville Area School District.

Students in the Youth and Philanthropy Class at Phoenixville Area High School are accustomed to doing good work—that’s the focus of the class. 

During the months of November and December, the stakes are higher, and so are the rewards. A student-organized program includes a food drive providing meals for 30 families for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. 

Scott Smiley teaches the class, and couldn’t be prouder of the accomplishments of these students. 

“They inspire the entire building and community to get involved with these efforts,” Smiley said.  

In December, the students also coordinate the Stockings for Kids project. More than 500 stockings will be filled and donated to families in the Phoenixville and surrounding communities to make their holidays brighter. The entire high school gets involved, and other student clubs and individuals excitedly take stockings to pack with toys and goodies for the lucky recipients. 

Schuylkill Elementary School is also an active participant in the project, donating more than 260 filled stockings to the cause. 

On Dec. 20, stockings will be delivered to PACS, The Clinic, Mom’s House, St. Mary’s Shelter and other local organizations that work with those in need. 

The Youth and Philanthropy Class is a unique offering at Phoenixville Area High School. Funded in part by the , students learn about the valuable role philanthropy plays in our society. 

More importantly, they learn first-hand the importance of giving back to the community.  For Phoenixville High School, they are role models and to the community they serve, they are heroes.