Students at Dublin Christian Academy spent April 9 crafting blankets and care packages for children facing illness during the school’s annual Day of Service.
The effort was inspired in part by the experience of Brent Meyers, the school’s director of academics, whose nephew Todd died of cancer at age 16. Meyers recalled one of his final memories of Todd smiling while wrapped in a blanket, a symbol of the comfort and support he received from his community.
Todd’s mother, Brenda Lurtey, a 1983 DCA graduate, shared her family’s story with students during a chapel service. She spoke about finding grace in small acts of kindness and encouraged students to support families facing serious illness.
Students from preschool through 12th grade participated in the service projects, producing 40 fleece blankets and 30 “Jared Boxes” for children in New Hampshire.
Younger students assembled the Jared Boxes with toys, games and other items for hospitalized children. The boxes, part of a national initiative aimed at lifting spirits in pediatric units, were delivered to Elliot Hospital in Manchester.
Older students made no-sew fleece blankets for Project Linus, a nonprofit that distributes blankets to children in need. The blankets were dropped off at Knitty Gritty in Peterborough, a local collection site.
In total, students created 70 items for children across the state.
School officials said the day is intended to encourage a lifelong commitment to service. Several students expressed interest in continuing volunteer efforts beyond the event.
The projects were supported by donations from local businesses, including MC Build, San Ken Homes Inc., Amazing Rentals Management LLC, Heartline Stove Shop, Rick & Diane’s Brick Oven Pizza, Laser Pro Foundations, Archer Properties, Versa-Lok, Northstone Builders, Deborah and Bill Blount of Life Changing Radio, Massage by Winona, RE/MAX Town Square and Lee Davis & Co.
