The true meaning of the holiday season was captured last winter in the heart-warming, smiling faces of the children at Lincoln School 22. The Scott Spino Foundation provided a “winter outer wardrobe” for all the children, surprising them with coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and books. The twinkle in their eyes as they proudly modeled their new outerwear was a wonderful expression of their thanks. Their hugs of appreciation touched each of the volunteer's hearts in a way that made them stop, reflect and remember the true meaning of this season. Lincoln School 22 was the home of Scott Spino, a beloved teacher who lost his life to a drunk driver in 2004. The Foundation was established by Scott's parents, Geri and Jerry, with the goal of continuing Scott's passion in making a difference in our community and in the lives of our children. This year the Foundation's goal is BIGGER. The Foundations' 2006 goal is to again “clothe” the children at School 22 as well as extend that giving of warmth and lots of smiles, to the children at another city school --The Eugenio Maria De Hostas Charter School. The children at the Charter school will receive their warm winter gear, including new coats, hats, gloves, scarves, books and smiles on November 17, 2006 at 1:00 pm. The children at School 22 will receive their hats, gloves, scarves, books, pencils and a motivational bookmark on December 13, 2006 between noon and 1:00 pm. The School 22 Literacy volunteers will distribute these items to their reading partner.
The “Keeping Kids Warm” project in 2005 was made possible by private and local donations of individuals who were moved enough to give back to our community by providing some happiness and joy in the lives of these children, through their generosity.For more information about the Scott Spino Foundation and this year's event, please contact Geri or Jerry Spino at 227-4069.
