As Thanksgiving approaches, students at Batavia Academy, part of Genesee Valley BOCES, are hard at work making a heartfelt difference in their community through their annual Thanksgiving Food Drive. Guided by Student Social Worker Erika Bucci and Special Education Teacher Jeanne Johnson, the students are organizing and preparing food bags to feed 21 families in need. This incredible effort is about more than just giving back; it’s also about teamwork, kindness, and building a stronger sense of community.
The team of six students—Rito V., Tyler S., Atreyu W., Taryne H., and Tyler E., and Patrick D.—has taken on the challenge with enthusiasm and dedication. Each student plays a specific role, from sorting and packing food items to organizing resources and ensuring everything is ready for distribution. Together, they are transforming boxes of donated goods into thoughtfully prepared family food bags, filled with care and holiday spirit.
"This is such a rewarding experience," shared one student. "We all have a part to play, and seeing it come together is amazing. Knowing that we’re helping families during the holidays makes it even more special."
The students approach the task with determination and joy, fostering a positive and collaborative environment. The project is not only a meaningful service effort but also a powerful bonding experience for the group. As they work together, laughter fills the room, and their shared goal strengthens friendships and creates a sense of accomplishment.
Each food bag includes non-perishable items collected through donations at various drop-off points, highlighted on the flyers promoting the drive. Beyond groceries, the bags also include valuable resources for families in Genesee County. These handouts provide information on a free Thanksgiving dinner option, available for sit-down meals, pick-up, or delivery, as well as details about pop-up food pantries and other community services.
The thoughtful inclusion of these resources reflects the dedication of Bucci and Johnson, who have worked tirelessly to ensure the families receiving these bags have access to ongoing support. This effort goes beyond simply providing food—it is a way to show families they are not alone and that their community truly cares about them.
The students’ enthusiasm and commitment to this initiative don’t end with Thanksgiving. Plans are already in motion to replicate the effort for Christmas, providing more families with the support they need to enjoy the holiday season. Additionally, the group has started building a classroom pantry to offer year-round assistance to students, both at school and at home.
The project has proven to be a profound learning experience for the students. Not only have they honed their organizational and teamwork skills, but they’ve also applied practical math concepts such as calculating quantities, dividing items evenly, and managing inventory. The effort has shown them how impactful their actions can be, and many have expressed a deep sense of pride in knowing they are making a difference.
The bags will soon be distributed, ensuring that families across Genesee County can enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with dignity and warmth. The impact of the students’ hard work will be felt as families gather to celebrate the holiday, thanks to the generosity and dedication of the Batavia Academy team.
This food drive is a testament to the power of compassion, community, and teamwork. The leadership of Bucci and Johnson, combined with the students’ commitment, highlights the incredible potential of working together toward a shared goal.
As the program grows, the Batavia Academy students and staff remain committed to helping their peers and neighbors. This initiative not only provides immediate support to families in need but also creates a foundation for long-term change, proving that even small efforts can make a significant difference in the lives of others.