Dear Generous Donors,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your incredible support through DonorsChoose. Thanks to your generous contributions, my students now have access to a variety of healthy snacks that play a vital role in supporting their learning, well-being, and mental health.
In a high school classroom, students face not only academic challenges but also the many pressures of adolescence. Balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, and personal responsibilities can be overwhelming. Many of my students also deal with stress, anxiety, and sometimes difficult circumstances at home. For them, a safe and supportive classroom environment can make a world of difference. Your donation has helped provide that environment, and it goes beyond simply filling their stomachs.
The snacks you helped provide are more than just food. They serve as an important tool for enhancing mental health and focus in the classroom. Studies consistently show that hunger impairs concentration and cognitive function. A hungry student is less likely to participate in discussions, stay engaged with the material, or maintain the stamina to work through challenging assignments. By ensuring they have nutritious snacks to fuel their brains and bodies, you've allowed my students to stay focused and active participants in their own learning.
More importantly, this project has contributed significantly to improving my students' emotional well-being. For many, food insecurity is a real concern, and having a snack during the day can relieve some of the anxiety that comes from worrying about their next meal. This small act of kindness—offering something as simple as a granola bar, fruit, or crackers—creates a sense of safety and community in the classroom. Students know they are supported and cared for, which fosters an environment where they can thrive academically and socially.
Several of my students have expressed how much they appreciate having these snacks available. They've shared that it helps them feel more prepared for class and less stressed about hunger, especially during longer school days or tough exam periods. It's touching to hear their gratitude, knowing that your donations have directly impacted their ability to succeed.
Additionally, the snacks have helped build a stronger classroom community. Many students take comfort in knowing that there is always something available if they need it, and they're more willing to open up about their day or ask for help when they know they are in a supportive environment. These small moments—whether it's offering a snack or simply checking in—make a huge difference in how they experience school and manage their mental health.
Your kindness has given my students more than just food. You've provided them with peace of mind, the ability to focus better, and the assurance that their well-being matters. This sense of security allows them to fully immerse themselves in learning, participate more openly in discussions, and approach their schoolwork with confidence.
Once again, thank you for your generosity. You are helping to create a classroom culture where students feel nurtured and supported, which is essential for their success—not just academically, but personally as well. I cannot express enough how much your contribution has meant to me and my students. You've made a lasting impact, and we are truly grateful.”
With gratitude,
Mr. Stefanelli