Over the past few months, RHS students and staff have partnered with local charitable organizations to complete a variety of successful drives aimed at raising money, collecting essential goods, feeding those in need and spreading kindness throughout the community.

“Every donation makes a difference and helps someone your age feel seen, supported and celebrated,” said Student Council advisor Michele Adriano, who teaches dance at the high school. “Let’s share the warmth and make this season brighter: one hoodie, one smile, one gift at a time.”

Here’s a look at some of the charitable initiatives RHS has completed over the last two months.

Donation Drive: Bridges Club

The Bridges Club hosted a donation drive with Nourish NJ, an organization that provides immediate access to healthy food. The club collected 94 items from RHS students, including new socks, body wash, soap and cereal.

“The objective of our club is to bring the community together, give back and help those in need,” said Bridges board member Emma Gomez. “We try to do at least one donation drive each school year, as it encourages members to think twice about items they may just have lying around the house.”

Project Kind: Senior English Classes

Students in Angie Stierch’s senior English classes partnered with Project Kind to make brown-bag lunches that were delivered to homeless shelters in Newark. In addition to preparing sandwiches and sides, students decorated the lunch bags with positive messages.

“Project Kind, to me, is not just a charity, it’s a community,” senior Mason Morris said. “My inspiration really was sparked because I wanted to become part of a community that takes real, impactful action to support people who are struggling.”

Card Making: Bridges and Key Club

Bridges Club and Key Club teamed up to host a card-making event, during which students created uplifting cards for residents of local retirement homes.

“It’s a small gesture, but it really brings a lot of joy to the residents around the holidays,” Bridges Club advisor Evan Wilson said.

Warmth for Winter: Key Club

Key Club partnered with Family Promise to host a Warmth for Winter drive, collecting thermal clothing for people and families experiencing homelessness.

“Key Club is trying to be more active in the community,” co-president Alivia Wright explained.

Holiday Drop: Student Council and Bridges Club

Members of the Student Council and Bridges Club also collaborated on a Holiday Drop, collecting gifts for teens such as clothing, self-care and skincare products, gaming equipment and snacks.

Clothing Donation Drive: Class of 2028

The RHS Class of 2028 organized a clothing donation drive in partnership with Clothing Donation Services (CDS). CDS distributes donated items to non-profit organizations, schools, police and fire departments, churches and other community groups.