Give the gift of time, some food for the pantry

Once again, we at Healthy Oxford Hills are impressed with the “Person on the Street” comments in the Advertiser Democrat. This time the comments were in response to “What can you do for someone over the holidays without spending money?”

The responses were from children who expressed value in spending time with friends and love ones, playing games and doing crafts. Children understand the value of time spent together as being the most important gift. Remember, as you are doing your last minute shopping to buy “that special” gift: the most important gift is your time.

Some of the other comments the children offered were about giving to others who are less fortunate. I love that a couple of the kindergarteners mentioned cooking a turkey for someone. Sounds like their classroom is rich with discussion.

The same day I read these comments, I received the Agnes Gray School newsletter that mentioned collecting food for the pantry. No doubt there are similar examples throughout the school district where children are learning the value of giving to others. In my work with the food pantries, I have heard first hand how the number of people visiting the pantries is increasing. I commend the school for holding the food drive.

So thanks to the children, for once again reminding us what is important this time of year, and thanks to this newspaper for making the space for the wisdom of our youngest voices. If you would like to model giving to others, why not take your children shopping for some healthy food to give to the pantry?

Kate Goldberg is a program coordinator at Healthy Oxford Hills, a Project of Stephens Memorial Hospital