In an unexpected gesture of generosity, the Meijer “Great Place to Work” Employee Team — whose mission is to give back to the community through their volunteerism — paid a visit to Jefferson Elementary on October 23rd to donate between 50-60 backpacks filled to the brim with school supplies, crayons, and other items. They made it all the more special with a last-minute notice that they were ready and standing by to deliver the backpacks.
With the extreme circumstances surrounding the challenges to the Manistee community, state and nation brought about by the COVID-19 global pandemic, volunteer efforts such as these are beacons of light, caring, and hope that brighten the days for MAPS’ youngest Chippewas at Jefferson Elementary, their families, and those served through the MAPS CareConnect program.
Jefferson Principal Julia Raddatz commented she was “extremely overwhelmed and touched by the scope of this outreach project, which could not have come at a more perfect time as a student’s need for supplies had been identified earlier in the day. This generous contribution is very impactful to our students and staff.”
Supt. Ronald Stoneman, on behalf of the MAPS Board of Education and the entire MAPS Family, shared, “we thank the Meijer “Great Place to Work” Employee Team for their efforts and spirit of giving back and for meeting this unsolicited need. We truly appreciate our ongoing community partnership with Meijer, and are fortunate to live in a community where we take care of each other.”
