By James Hanlon
Leader Staff Writer
“Dear friend, I hope you are warm and cozy.”
“You matter! The world is better because you are in it!”
“This blanket is filled with love. We hope it feels like a big hug!”
Students of Kingsbury Country Day School attached handwritten messages like these to 408 blankets for homeless shelters in Pontiac. The event was organized by kindergarten teacher Rose McElfresh. “We’re one of over 200 schools in 39 states across the country participating in this movement of kindness,” she said.
Students of each grade in the public charter academy located at 5000 Hosner Rd. wrote their messages of hope, joy and comfort on April 16. The blankets were provided by Blankets of Hope, a nonprofit based in Brooklyn, New York. The organization helps students “practice empathy and kindness by donating blankets – each paired with an inspirational handwritten note – to those experiencing homelessness.”