Summerville Catholic School students began the new school year by reaching out to serve the community. This is the third academic year that SCS junior high students have had the opportunity to spend time at the Neighborhood House outreach center on the Charleston peninsula.
Students participated in tasks that included packing grocery bags for needy residents, washing lunch tables or peeling and chopping dozens of hardboiled eggs. However, the most enjoyable responsibility is greeting the 100 or more guests who come for lunch.
Upon returning to school, students spent time discussing the value that the day provided. They remarked how privileged they feel in their own lives and expressed the desire to do even more for the less fortunate. A recurring comment from students was their surprise at how happy and thankful the lunch guests appeared. Overall, the time spent at Neighborhood House assists our students in learning and reinforcing respect for the dignity of others as being created in God’s image and likeness.
Neighborhood House, a mission of the sisters of Charity of Our Lady of Mercy, is located at 77 America Street, Charleston.