Student Gives Back in the Season of Giving Thanks

Over the two weeks prior to her birthday, Alyssa has diligently dedicated herself to answering inquiries from friends and families regarding what she wants for her birthday with one answer: “pasta and sauce.” Her goal is to take her collection of pasta and sauce on her birthday to the Anaheim White House and graciously present it as a gift to the restaurant’s Caterina’s Club, which according to their website serves a nutritionally balanced meal of pasta and vegetables seven nights a week to approximately 1,000 low-income children. More than 750,000 meals have been served to date.

Alyssa first learned about Caterina’s Club through her grandparents who volunteer through their church across the community to help feed homeless and underprivileged families.

This year, when grandfather Tom shared that he was going to feed needy children he asked her if she would like to join him. Not only did she say “yes,” Alyssa said that she wanted to help even more by bringing sauces and pasta.

Friends and family members heard of Alyssa’s project and helped her gather 100 pounds of sauce and pasta. She has even received a $100 check to purchase more items.

On the morning of her birthday, she received one more surprise. The Women’s Club of Placentia heard about Alyssa’s endeavor and surprised her with a check for $400. This donation will help her purchase additional pasta and sauce. According to the White House Restaurant’s website seven children can be fed with just a pound of spaghetti.

The Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District congratulates Alyssa for exemplifying one of the district’s four core values: Collaboration.

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