Kids with Capes treat Friendship Room

STEUBENVILLE -- Children at Wells Academy are playing Easter Bunny and providing a special treat for the Friendship Room.

About 20 third-graders involved with the school's Kids with Capes student group delivered bags of candy to the site on Tuesday to ensure patrons can enjoy the spring holiday. Formerly known as the Community Kids, the group includes 100 students in grades 2-4 who work together to help those in need within the community.

"Our mission was to collect candy for the Friendship Room so they can have an Easter party," said adviser Alexis Mahoney. "This is the first time we have done this project, but we tend to collect for the Friendship Room a few times a year. We decided to do this because we wanted a spring service project and we thought this would be a great way to help for Easter."

Letters were sent to all school parents asking that students send in candy or jellybeans. A collection took place throughout March and the sweet treats were delivered by the students prior to their holiday break.

"The kids are really enjoying the project. We have so many generous families here at Wells Academy and it's amazing to see their kindness," Mahoney added.

Several students said they were excited to take part and help others in need.

"It's good," said third-grader Braylen Jackson. "It's just giving."

"I feel really good," added classmate Nina Lumpkin. "I love giving out stuff to people who don't have money."

Victoria Fallon, executive assistant for the Friendship Room, said the students have always been gracious benefactors.

"Wells Academy Kids with Capes are fantastic. These children are working hard to give back to the community," Fallon commented. "They are really a blessing and we are so grateful."

Kids with Capes attempt to complete a project each month, and this year that has included distributing water during the United Way 5K, celebrating National Thank A Police Officer Day by visiting and delivering cards to the Steubenville Police Department and collecting more than 50 boxes of items for Operation Christmas Child. Most recently, the students collected socks and undergarments for the Brooke County Family Support Center during Poverty Awareness Month in February. Mahoney said they have also provided peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to feed hungry patrons at the Friendship Room and planned to do so again before the school year comes to a close.

Meanwhile, Mahoney said the young volunteers are always looking to help.

"We will continue to serve the community wherever the need arises."