Santa ’ s Southern Workshop
The School Services program , now in its 4th year , reaches out to students ranging from kindergartners to high school seniors who are moving from house to house , motel to motel , or sleeping in cars or campgrounds . Working with Charlotte ’ s child welfare agency , A Child ’ s Place , and with CMS social workers , Bright Blessings reached more than 1,800 students during the 2012 – 2013 school year .
Bright Blessings provides treats and goodie bags for children to share with classmates , as well as gifts for the birthday boy or girl . “ Younger children are in a classroom where everyone ’ s birthday is posted on the walls , everyone knows when your birthday is and an expectation develops that the child will bring in treats for their classmates ,” Amy said . “ We are able to step in and deliver birthday treats and juice boxes that the child , or their parent , can deliver and share with the class .”
Older children have gifts subtly delivered in “ care and comfort ” backpacks stuffed with toiletries , a blanket , a pillow and books . The backpacks also include notes that encourage them to make good choices for their health and nutrition , and a “ fit to celebrate ” flyer that offers ideas about how to exercise and be healthy , despite their situation .
Classic and age appropriate books and lap desks are also included to encourage each student ’ s studies .
“ The feedback we have received has been tremendous as well as heartbreaking ,” Amy said . “ One social worker told of a young boy who after receiving his backpack , the first thing he asked was if he could be excused to go brush his teeth .”
“ Bright Blessings allows parents to not have to choose between paying a bill verses having a birthday party ,” said Kay Carreira , CMS School Psychologist .
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