MLD News Details

ARUNDEL, Maine - Students at Mildred L. Day School collected more than 1,500 nonperishable food items during their 18th annual "Give From the Heart" campaign, demonstrating their commitment to fighting food insecurity in their community.

The students presented the food to Community Outreach Services (COS) during an assembly on Friday, Feb. 14.

The five-week drive, which began Jan. 13, engaged students from kindergarten through fifth grade in collecting specific high-priority items for COS, which serves families in Arundel, Kennebunk, and Kennebunkport.

"Our students learn that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in their community," said Gail Keith, principal at Mildred L. Day School. "Watching our fifth graders take leadership roles in organizing and managing this drive shows how this initiative not only helps our neighbors but also builds important life skills."

Each classroom aimed to collect 100 items, with students encouraged to contribute across classrooms to ensure all goals were met. One classroom specifically collected pet food to support families with animals.

Last year's drive yielded 1,936 pounds of food for COS. This year's collection of 1,513 items comes at a crucial time, as food pantries typically see fewer donations during winter months.

Mark Jago, executive director of COS, emphasized the growing need for food assistance as grocery prices continue to rise. According to Jago, families using the food pantry can redirect their savings toward essential expenses like utilities, gas, and rent.

Media coverage:

York County Coast Star

Kennebunk Post