An important focus of Calais’ Transition program is to teach students how to be contributing members of society and this includes community service. Coincidentally, our Maintenance Department Manager Israel Antoine is also a minister at The Rock Christian Fellowship in Newark NJ. Each year his congregation runs a Christmas Gift Giveaway for children in need. This holiday season, Calais’ 12 Plus Students took action to give back and make a difference in the lives of other children.

Participating in the Toy Drive was no small task. The wish list provided to the students included presents for children from infant to young adults. Our students were doing more than just giving back, they were also building some useful living skills. They had to work within a defined budget and shop for gifts that were both age and gender appropriate. Once the shopping was done, the gifts were brought back to the Calais Toy Shop where students worked together as a team to organize, wrap, and tag the gifts.

We wish the children and their families as well as The Rock Christian Fellowship congregation a happy and healthy holiday season and a Happy New Year!