Port Jefferson School District

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School is proud to announce the resounding success of its Holiday Helpers Program and the 4th Annual Stuff a Locker Drive, which together raised nearly $6,000 in support of families in need this holiday season. This year’s initiative was made possible through the outstanding support of the Port Jefferson community, including local clubs, faculty, staff, and new contributors from Theater Three.

The Holiday Helpers Program, spearheaded by social worker Kristin Britt, has been an annual tradition for 21 years, providing families in the Port Jefferson area with essential items and holiday cheer. This year, with contributions from the community, the program was able to support 18 families, offering them a mix of gifts, gift cards, and bountiful food baskets.

“Having had the privilege of running the Holiday Helpers Program for 21 years, I can honestly say that each year, everyone helped turn my vision into a reality.” Ms.Britt said, reflecting on the success of this year’s efforts. “We provided 18 families with gifts, gift cards, and food items. I was deeply moved by the compassion, kindness, and generosity shown to our students and their families.”

The Stuff a Locker program, which was held in tandem with the Holiday Helpers initiative, continues to be a major component of the school's drive to make the holiday season brighter for those in need. The program encourages students, faculty, and local businesses to fill donation lockers with non-perishable food items, gifts, and more. This year’s efforts saw an increase in participation, thanks to generous contributions from local clubs and the unwavering support of the faculty and staff.

In addition to the usual support, the school received an outpouring of generosity from Theater Three staff and cast members, who joined in to provide additional backing for the cause. With this extra support, every family participating in the program received a food basket, ensuring that no family was left without a festive and fulfilling holiday meal.