At Monsignor Edward Pace High School, one large act of kindness sweeps the campus each year around the Thanksgiving festivities and calls all students, teachers and faculty members to come out and participate.
This major tradition is the Tons of Love food drive, which was started by Sister Carol Jean Willie over 25 years ago.During this time, people inside and outside the Pace community are invited to donate canned goods and any non-perishable goods to the drive that goes out to feed families for Thanksgiving. Last year, the drive fed 300 families.
The theology department, and compassionate students who are a part of the Pace Mission Club, dedicate their time to make sure this event is always a success. Their passion for this event led to the creation of the Pace Pantry.The realization that families are hungry all year long, not just during Thanksgiving, drew some key members and teachers to form this pantry which runs year-long.
It provides for local members of our community who are in need of food and toiletries for their families."I will not be satisfied until everyone in America goes to sleep without being hungry," said theology teacher and leader of the Tons of Love food drive and Pace Pantry, Nelson Bonet. "There is no reason that in this country of prosperity anybody should go hungry."