U-46 thanks community for donated to students in need

Dozens of U-46 students will have a brighter holiday season this year thanks to the generosity of several of the district’s area business partners.

Wells Fargo in Elgin, the Wisdom Family Foundation and Meier made donations to help students in need during the holiday season. Additionally, Jenny and Tyler Diciolla, owners of Lifeline Plumbing in Elgin, donated more than 40 turkeys to U-46 families in need.

“U-46 is fortunate to have so many wonderful business partners who — without ever being asked — graciously give to help students in need,” said Superintendent Dr. José Torres. A longtime U-46 supporter, the Wisdom Family Foundation provided a generous grant for Project Access, the district’s homeless education program. The grant will cover the costs to allow U-46 homeless students to receive emergency transportation, attend field trips and enjoy other educational experiences. Since 2007, the program has grown from serving approximately 360 students to serving more than 750 students today.

Wells Fargo Bank in Elgin will adopt 10 students for Christmas, providing students in need with clothes, toys and other items included on the students’ wish lists. Elgin’s Meijer will donate 75 backpacks for students who don’t have one. Students to receive the gifts will be selected through the Project Access Program.

“Many of our homeless students don’t know where they are going to sleep from one night to the next so these donations will certainly give them a little extra holiday cheer,” said Maggie Schroeder, U-46 homeless liaison/Project Access coordinator. “I’m grateful our business partners see the positive impact Project Access is having on students in need. These investments truly do make a difference.”

Families from the Bartlett community also contributed to Project Access, including the Grosam family, Kirkby family, Smith families and Czyz family.