More than 400 people (462 to be exact) received a holiday dinner sponsored by Hart High School’s Associated Student Body for homeless students from the school and needy families from the nearby area. The dinner of turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, vegetables, rolls and of course dessert, was donated and prepared by students, parents and community volunteers.

After dinner each family received a bag of canned foods and clothes, including jackets, heavy sweaters and blankets. Each child received a gift from Santa Claus. The Hart High School faculty and various student groups contributed to a canned food drive in November and a toy drive in December to support the event.

The dinner was organized by Kailey Giordano, who serves as ASB philanthropist, and Taylor Arnone, ASB ambassador and student representative to the Hart District Governing Board. More than 40 students, parents, faculty members, Hart High School administrators and district personnel helped with the event.

The dinner had two purposes: to provide for the needy of the community and to teach students the value of giving to those less fortunate, according to ASB Director Pete Calzia.