Over the years, several Mason organizations have provided holiday assistance for students and their families. In 2024, many of these groups joined forces to work together under a single mission of supporting people in Mason experiencing food insecurity. Mason City Schools CommUNITY Holiday Help program was designed to provide students from preschool to twelfth grade with essential items categorized as something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read.
“Mason City Schools CommUNITY Holiday Help program is a powerful example of how a supportive community can positively impact students and families,” Prevention and Wellness Coordinator for Mason City Schools, Laura Martin, tells us. “This initiative not only provides essential items but also fosters a sense of belonging and well-being, which are critical for a student's success in and out of the classroom.”
Many organizations and businesses collaborated, including Kiwanis, Shine Like Sable, Comet Cupboard, Rotary, Mason City Schools, Mason Schools Foundation, City of Mason, Girl Scouts, Heritage Presbyterian Church, MHS National Honor Society, Tall Stacks, Manor House, Meijer, and The Book Bus Depot. They provided gifts, clothing, books and blankets to over 800 students. Additionally, more than 400 coats, hats, mittens and gloves were handed out.
“We are deeply grateful for the unwavering generosity and compassion of the community, whose support allows the district to truly make a difference for our students,” Laura shares.
“We are blessed by an amazing community that donated their resources to assist in making this program happen,” adds organizer Casey Moran of Comet Cupboard and the local Girl Scouts.
The Girl Scouts took the lead in ensuring that every participating student received a handcrafted blanket. They partnered with organizations and churches to hold blanket-cutting and tying events, to make sure a plentiful supply of blankets was available.
“We were called to take action and make a difference, not to sit on the sidelines asking questions, thinking about whether or not to use our talents to make the world a better place,” Casey enthuses.
“For many families facing financial hardship, the support received from CommUNITY Holiday Help means they don't have to choose between providing a holiday for their children and covering other essential expenses,” Laura explains. “The gratitude from these families is immeasurable, as the community's generosity allows them to experience the joy of the season.”
Casey continues, “No one wants to be food insecure or homeless. We enjoy helping parents and guardians select the best gift for their children and providing them with wrapping paper to package it in a way that gives them dignity and hope.”
This year saw a 33% increase in the need for the program. They expect to serve approximately 1,200 students in 2025 and hope to continue building new partnerships to support all of the kids.
“As folks head into the Thanksgiving season, giving thanks makes life easier and more enjoyable,” Casey remarks. “In fact, gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, fully enjoy good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity and build strong relationships. One of the many ways to feel gratitude is to bless others.”
Their biggest challenge will be gathering enough financial donations needed to run the program. Readers interested in getting involved can email cometcupboard@masonohioschools.com for volunteer opportunities or consider donating at MasonOhioSchools.com.
“This initiative not only provides essential items but fosters a sense of belonging..." - Laura Martin
“We were called to take action and make a difference..." -Casey Moran