More than 200 bags of food were packed by the approximately 185 freshman students who participated in the Traditions and Transition (TNT) service project, part of Freshman Student Orientation activities over the Aug. 25-26 weekend. The students, aided by about 15 upperclassmen, packed each bag with 10 – 12 food items for children from low-income families in inner-city Catholic schools.
Children will take the bags home over upcoming weekends to help supplement their existing food supplies. Newman students also added personal notes of encouragement and friendship to each bag.
The food was donated by the TNT class, the Newman Koinonia service club, and the Adorers of the Blood of Christ. The bags were a gift of the Newman Alumni Association. The bags will be delivered by Catholic Charities of Wichita, which will replenish food supplies to continue the program through the school year. Administrative Assistant Elaine Schmeidler, pictured, was among the Academic and Student Support Services staff members who helped gather the food items before the orientation weekend. Schmeidler is also the mother of new freshman student Abby Schmeidler.
