A staple project at Belmont Hill, the Turkey Drive has been a favorite community initiative since Mr. Trautz brought it to our campus. In 2010, the program’s first year, the school put together 50 meals for local families in need. This year, with help from the greater Belmont Hill community and under Mr. George’s leadership, Form III increased that number tenfold, assembling 501 meals.
Third-formers built boxes, collected and sorted food, and delivered the finished meals. Mr. George explained that the goal of this project is to provide a dignified meal with fresh produce for each family on the special day of giving thanks and to give families quality, stress-free meals.
“501 meals, though it seems like a lot, is a way bigger number than most people picture,” said Mr. George. To have the produce needed for that many boxes, almost all students must contribute. Local businesses like Iggy’s and Jessica’s Brick Oven also contributed, donating fresh bread to the Thanksgiving meals.
The school connected with needy families through the Boston Board of Health, churches, food pantries, and local schools. Many third formers delivered the meals, and other volunteers helped complete the project.
In past years, families receiving meals have sent heartfelt thank-you letters, which Mr. George calls one of the most rewarding reminders of their gratitude. He also noted, “This year, having all of the boxes complete and stacked in the library had a great impact on me, seeing the difference that the school will make to the community this Thanksgiving.” Mr. George says that as he looks towards expanding the initiative even past the amazing measures it has achieved. He hopes to see more main food staples included for families that do not celebrate the holiday and to extend the food past just one meal, having food for days or weeks after the special meal.
The Panel congratulates Mr. George, the third form, and the whole school community for such success with this project, which has impacted many people in the area. As we head into the winter, stay tuned for upcoming initiatives, and as members of the Belmont Hill community, help out in the ways you can.
