The holiday spirit was strong at Woodland Middle School in the East Meadow School District as sixth-grade students joined John Theissen, executive director and founder of the John Theissen Children’s Foundation, in collecting toys for needy children. During his visit to Woodland, Mr. Theissen explained the importance of his cause and the reasons behind the development of this significant community resource.“Donations are down 35 percent this year, so I am happy that you are helping the foundation fill this need during the holiday season,” Mr. Theissen told the students.
Since its inception in 1992, the John Theissen Children’s Foundation has collected over 550,000 new toys for sick and underprivileged children in 185 hospitals and child care facilities throughout Long Island. The foundation also donates therapeutic and recreational equipment, fulfills wishes and helps families with medical expenses.
Teacher Barbara Rooney, who assisted teachers Jana Alfarone, Gail Larsen and Brenda Marino with the student toy drive, reminded the students that many more children on Long Island are in need after Superstorm Sandy. “Sometimes we get so caught up in our own lives, we forget that others need help,” she said to students. “Let’s make this a successful toy drive for the children on Long Island.”
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