Marlborough – “The generosity we witnessed today just amazes me,” commented Sarah Sheldon, organizer of the Assabet Valley Regional Technical High's FIRST Robotics team community service event.
The group stood at the Hudson Stop & Shop on a recent Sunday morning and approached shoppers as they headed in, asking if they would mind adding some extra non-perishables or toys to their? shopping to donate to the Hudson Food Pantry or Toys for Tots.
“So many people came back out of the store with items to give us, or they just walked over and donated cash,” exclaimed Marcus Fletcher, Project Coordinator for the robotics program at Assabet. “It sure gives you a good feeling. I don's know whether it was because the economy is improving, or because people are more aware that there are others in the community who are less fortunate, but the outpouring from everyone was very heartening.
“Next year, we may add in a booth at the school's Exhibit/Admissions Night, and advertise in advance, so that people coming over to visit Assabet can bring something to contribute at our robotics booth.”
After loading nine carriages and boxes of groceries and toys, and adding up $400 in cash donations, the team moved the items to the school to store for delivery to the Food Pantry and Toys for Tots. The cash will be divided evenly between the two organizations.
” One of the highlights of the morning was when one gentleman stopped and explained to his two young sons that charitable giving is so important to help those who may not have as much, and then they came back out of the store and the oldest son proudly handed us a bag of groceries. That was the best moment of the day,” added Sheldon.
