Social Worker Mari Warfel, left, collects a donation from Catskill Academy student Dylan DePolito to help those affected by Hurricane Sandy.
With fresh memories of the devastating effects last year’s Tropical Storm Irene had on many towns in Greene County, students at Questar III BOCES’ Catskill Academy were eager to pool their change together to help downstate residents recoup from Hurricane Sandy.
Hurricane relief items purchased with funds raised by Catskill Academy students.
On November 5, students in Teacher Nora Haran’s class watched footage from Far Rockaway in Queens, NY of the aftermath left by Sandy and felt compelled to help.
With the assistance of the school social worker, Mari Warfel, students spearheaded a school-wide fundraising campaign which pooled together enough pocket change in one day to purchase nearly $60 worth of supplies.
“It is amazing how quickly the students were able to accomplish their goal using a variety of team building and academic skills,” said Catskill Academy Principal Andrew Pemrick.
Using a list of requested items, students prioritized the list, putting baby food on top. “Babies need to eat, but adults can wait to eat,” explained Crystal Tucker, a student in Haran’s class.
Students utilized their math skills to estimate the cost of items and created a shopping list based on what they could afford.
Other items purchased included bleach and other cleaning supplies, band aids, antibiotic ointment, water and juice. “When the water goes away, there will be mold,” said student Elizabeth Sereikis. “The bleach will kill the mold.”
Two days later, the items were packed up and brought down to Queens thanks to a friend of Haran’s.
Pemrick also praised the staff for their efforts. “Nora Haran is an excellent, innovative teacher,” he said. “She and Mari Warfel bring out the best in Catskill Academy students.”
