A Tradition of Generosity

Eagle Hill School’s annual food drive embraces the spirit of giving.

As Thanksgiving approaches, Eagle Hill School continued its tradition of generosity through the Annual Food Drive in support of the local Hardwick Food Pantry. This year’s drive was especially meaningful, as the pantry reflected that families rely not only on food but also on essentials like toiletries, blankets, laundry detergent, and pet food. The Director of the Hardwick Food Pantry expressed deep gratitude for Eagle Hill’s support.

During Fall Family Weekend, student volunteers began eagerly collecting donations of nonperishable food items and monetary contributions. For every three donated items or five-dollar contribution, donors received a raffle ticket for a chance to win a special prize, which was drawn at Fall Family Weekend. The drive continued with further collection efforts in the Chapman Dining Commons until Thanksgiving Break, allowing even more community members to contribute.

This effort beautifully exemplifies the true spirit of Thanksgiving—coming together as a community to help neighbors with open hearts and hands.

Last week the items were delivered to the Hardwick Food Pantry, providing crucial support to families in need during the holiday season. This effort beautifully exemplifies the true spirit of Thanksgiving—coming together as a community to help neighbors with open hearts and hands.

In addition to the Hardwick Pantry donation, Ms. Damon and her students also led a Birthday in a Box community service project, expanding Eagle Hill’s impact. Students raised $125, then worked together to create a budget and to determine the most cost-effective stores for purchasing supplies. Once the items were collected, students assembled the boxes and prepared thoughtfully curated birthday kits for local children.

Five boxes were donated to the Hardwick Food Pantry, ten to Hardwick Elementary School, five to the Northampton Survival Center, and five to the Sturbridge Food Pantry—ensuring that children across multiple communities can experience the joy of a special birthday celebration.

Together, these acts of service reflect the heart of Eagle Hill’s core values: Honesty, Respect, Kindness, and Purpose—values that guide our students to make meaningful contributions both on campus and beyond.