Coming into Friday morning, some of the fifth and sixth graders in the New Paris Elementary student council were unaware of just what they were raising money for a month ago.
They are all aware now.
The students who gathered just after school went into session were joined by Chris Seminario for a little eye-opening quick session.
“I think it helps kids learn that they have friends and classmates who have had people die,” said Seminario, who is the Director for School Programs at Ryan’s Place. “This helps them meet other kids who are learning to cope, learning about grief, mental health. It helps start conversations.”
Seminario was on hand to receive a donation check for Ryan’s Place from the students for funds that were raised during the Hershey Kiss Drive in February, which drive altogether pulling in over $1,500.
"I am always so impressed and encouraged by our earnings from the Hershey Kiss sale,” noted New Paris counselor Kelsi Sheets, who was an organizer for the Hershey Kiss Drive. “Our families and teachers really show up to make it a successful fundraiser!"
Ryan’s Place, located in Goshen, provides grief support for children, teens and their families. It’s focus is primarily on children, and offers individual grief therapy as well as crisis support.
Added Seminario about the programs that Ryan’s Place already has in schools like New Paris Elementary, “We are here, within the schools. We know that kids have a hard time dealing with the death of a loved one. They might think about it all day rather than focus on school, and we are here to help them with that.”