Students at Prep started the school year off strong by making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for the Emmaus Ministries Soup Kitchen. During each lunch period, six students volunteered to earn service time and give back to the Erie community. This past Tuesday marked the beginning of the service project, and over 200 sandwiches were made for those in need.

“Making the sandwiches was just something we did to help out,” said senior Michael Duffy. “It’s just a small gesture that I believe will impact someone, even if just by a little bit.”

The student-led activity was introduced last school year by current senior Emma Kill. She noticed a need within the Erie community, and took action to make a difference.

“In Erie, right across from Prep, is the most impoverished zip code in the United States,” Emma said. “It’s right next to Emmaus, where they do so much work for the hungry and impoverished if they have nowhere else to go.”

Emma’s goal is to get as many students as possible to participate and to make sure Emmaus accomplishes their mission.

“The least we can do is help them with their efforts,” Emma said, “As long as they continue to get people fed, I am happy.”

Cathedral Prep teacher and campus minister Mrs. Emily Grenci was instrumental in helping Emma to get the project up and running. She enjoyed working with those who volunteered, and sees great purpose in the job they are doing.

“The project gives a unique opportunity for service that can be completed in school,” Mrs. Grenci said. “It reminds us that helping the community doesn’t have to be difficult. The small things we do together can unite us as one Prep family.”