Commack Road Fourth Grader Leads School Toy Drive

Islip NY

11 January, 2021

4:30 PM

Description

Press release from Islip School District: January 11, 2021 Elizabeth Balsamo, a fourth grader in Meghan Flynn and Christine LeMaire's class at Islip's Commack Road Elementary School, recently organized the school's second annual toy drive. "One morning in early November, she enthusiastically came to school to talk to the principal about the drive," said LeMaire. "She had the idea last year as a third grader, after becoming concerned about children who were sick in the hospital at holidays. Balsamo designed a flyer for the initiative and made daily announcements. Her family helped her connect with Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip to send toys directly via Amazon. Toys were also donated to the John Theissen Children's Foundation. "Elizabeth is a natural leader at Commack Road," said Principal James Cameron. "Her example shows us that when given the chance to lead, kids can make a real difference," "I feel really proud and thankful for all of the help I received from my teachers, Mr. Cameron and everyone who donated," said Balsamo. This press release was produced by Islip School District. The views expressed here are the author's own.