THE HALLS of John the Baptist Community School in Hospital once again were ringing with the sounds of generosity with the school embracing the Redemptorist Food Appeal drive in a truly inspiring fashion. The school has always been a firm supporter of this vital service, donating hundreds of items each year to help provide invaluable hampers to families in need across Limerick. During Covid, the school added the ability to donate online as well. Each year, the distinctive decorated food bins appear throughout the school, with students bringing in the required food items over the weeks running up to Christmas. At the helm of this activity each year, are teachers Geraldine McNulty, Richelle Hurley and all of the Religion Department who drive this amazing Christmas activity forward with the aid of a dedicated and enthusiastic team of students. It is a huge undertaking, with a wonderful team of Fifth Year students linking with local shops, all staff reminding students of the importance of giving and many organising activities across the school to raise awareness and additional funds. This year saw a full return to all aspects of the food appeal and the entire school community was involved as it celebrated Christmas Day at John the Baptist Community School. The day saw students donate and don Christmas jumpers and headgear, with Christmas music at lunchtime, and parents/guardians donating so generously online and to the food bins. Clodagh Costello and her TY students created an array of delectable, sweet treats for a festive bake sale, and Norita Ring organised an amazing staff raffle. The school's canteen, with its partner Mint Catering, served turkey and ham as part of their lunch menu. The student council also ran a very successful Santa's grotto, leading to huge excitement with First Year students. El Gleeson, the schools' liaison officer with the food appeal, visited the school just before the school broke for the holidays and was thrilled to be presented with the funds collected in the school's
Festive spirit of generosity alive and well at Limerick school
