Poplar Bluff, Missouri - Poplar Bluff Junior High has donated a total of 5,700 canned goods to St. Vincent De Paul Food Pantry, marking the largest single donation the charity has received and the most items the students have raised, according to officials.

 

Social studies teacher Melinda Moncier spearheaded the project, which was carried out by the history department throughout the month of November. Faculty member Aaron Duncan’s seventh grade house generated the most non-perishables – with 1,760.

 

The annual fundraiser went along with Junior High’s focus this school year of community service, according to Principal Candace Warren. The students, who averaged seven cans apiece, have previously raised money for the Bread Shed in a pumpkin decorating contest as well as delivered hand-painted rocks to area nursing homes.

 

Located on Broadway Street, St. Vincent De Paul feeds 800 families in need per month. The nonprofit operation also includes a thrift store.

 

Pictured from left to right: Students Blaise Rowland and McKinzie Kendle; SVDP president Daryl Deacon; teacher Melinda Moncier; and student Kallie Knapp.

Photo and article submitted by Tim Krakowiak, Communications/Marketing Director, Poplar Bluff R-I School District