This winter, Morgan Elementary and Reynolds Middle School took part in the “Be The Warmth, Inc.” blanket drive led by Morgan alumnus Jackson Diefenbach.
Diefenbach worked with Morgan Elementary School EarlyAct students to collect and distribute new blankets and other winter essentials for New Jersey homeless. A 13-year-old Reynolds Middle School student, Diefenbach says he witnessed the need for aid when he accompanied his grandmother as she distributed blankets in New York City.
“I asked my grandmother how I could get involved and from that, the formation of began,” Diefenbach says.
The organization has shared the warmth with over 700 blanket recipients this winter. Diefenbach spent many hours this season handing out blankets and providing hope to those in need at churches, veteran’s shelters and code blue locations such as libraries and supermarkets.
“This is a tremendous endeavour by Jackson and one that very few 13-year-olds would even think about. It speaks volumes about his character,” said Morgan Elementary School principal Michael Giambelluca.
Morgan Elementary School and Reynolds Middle School each ran blanket drives partnering with the EarlyAct Club, collecting over 200 blankets this winter. EarlyAct provides young students the opportunity for gaining an increased awareness and knowledge of their community and the world.
“The work that Jackson is doing with “Be The Warmth” is making a difference every day in the lives of those in need. I commend Jackson and all those who helped for their efforts and providing blankets to our homeless community,” said Scott Rocco, HTSD superintendent of schools.
Mayor Jeff Martin with Morgan Elementary School EarlyAct students and the Diefenbach family. (Photo by Laura Geltch.),
