’Tis the Season of IH Giving

By Celynne Hebron ’15 and Sharmin Shanur ‘16

The generosity of Immaculate Heart students, faculty and staff recently made Thanksgiving meals possible for needy families served by the Casa Esperanza Center in the San Fernando Valley.

For its annual Thanksgiving food drive throughout November, the school community donated money and collected food items.  Rallying students to action were members of Immaculate Heart’s Campus Ministry Leadership Team, who visited high school sections and informed students about the dire situations of those families who live near Casa Esperanza on Blythe Street in Panorama City.

As a result of a tremendous outpouring of support, Immaculate Heart’s drive garnered nearly $3,000 and fed more than 200 families! Students collectively cheered, and several shed tears, as IH campus minister Terri McGrath announced the results following the school’s Thanksgiving Prayer Service.

Since its founding in 1992 by the Immaculate Heart Community, Casa Esperanza has served over 5,000 people. Now, 22 years later, its mission continues to empower families by fostering their independence and brightening their futures. Most of the families who live near Casa Esperanza are Hispanic immigrants who fall below the United States poverty level. Many of them have little chance of receiving nutritious food, a decent education, and a supportive community. Therefore, Immaculate Heart’s annual food drive strives to provide these poverty-stricken immigrants with a proper Thanksgiving meal. Monthly food collections at a nearby Albertson’s Market also help to regularly restock Casa Esperanza’s food pantry.

The Bamboo would like to congratulate everyone who contributed to the food drive. In doing so, the entire school community has demonstrated great heart and right conscience.

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