In response to the crises in Haiti, The Parenting Center is planning an evening gathering to support Haitian families who are affected by or concerned about the earthquake.

Our plan is to invite elementary and middle school Haitian families to Clinton School on Thursday, January 21, from 6:00–7:30pm. Parents and students are invited, as well as high school student mentors who are interested in working with the elementary students.

– We will first have a buffet dinner – pasta, chicken, salad, etc.
– Students and parents will then divide into separate groups in separate areas (lunchroom and gym)
– Maudjah Frances, a past intern and licensed counselor who was born in Haiti and now lives in South Orange, will lead the adult gathering. The goal is to support parents, share experiences and concerns, and provide information on helping children cope with this crises.
– The elementary and middle school students will meet in a group with their high school “buddies”. The group will be led by our building social workers. The goal of this group is to support the elementary and middle school students and discuss any concerns or issues they might have.

We will be sending a flyer home and social work interns will call specific families to invite them to this event. We welcome your feedback; please let us know how we can best reach out to the families at your school and we welcome ideas, suggestions and support.

We welcome your participation and contributions. Karen Hilton has agreed to coordinate the dinner, so, if you’d like to participate, please e-mail her at karenhilton{at}optonline.net Or you can contact Karen Weiland kweiland@somd.k12.nj.us or 973-762-5600 X1850.

Each year the Parenting Center collects toys for needy children in the South Orange & Maplewood School District and Clinton School is a collection site. Many children benefit from this effort so your generosity is greatly appreciated.

Please drop off an unwrapped toy for children ages infant to 16. We usually get many more toys for little ones than teens, so if you can drop off something that would appeal to teenagers that would be great, but items for all ages are needed.

THE DRIVE RUNS FROM DECEMBER 1ST-14TH.

The collection box is in the front hallway of Clinton School so you can drop the toy off there or have your child bring the toy to school and deposit it in the collection box.

Clinton School has been a great supporter of this effort in years past and we look forward to another very generous season.

Read a nice article about the Toy Drive on Patch.