As the season of giving begins, MMI Preparatory School students are demonstrating the school’s deep commitment to service through two meaningful projects running from Nov. 11 through Nov. 25.

Both drives are student-led and will directly benefit children and families in the Greater Hazleton communities.

The first, a food drive organized by Caleb Skuba ’26 and members of MMI’s National Honor Society, will support The Willow Foundation’s Heartwood Center in Hazleton and the Brueningsen Memorial Mobile Food Pantry at St. Michael’s Recreation Center in Freeland. Requested donations include sugar, coffee creamer, condiments, spices, cooking oils, sauces, canned fruits and vegetables, and boxed dinners.

The drive will also include a friendly grade-level competition. Collection boxes have been placed in one advisory per grade, and the grade contributing the most items will earn a dress-down day on Dec. 4.

The second project, the Supplies for Santa Toy Drive, is led by Stella Horvath ’29 and supports the 12th Annual Supplies for Santa initiative, which benefits children spending the holidays at Geisinger’s Janet Weis Children’s Hospital. Requested items include coloring books for kids and teens, crayons, markers, colored pencils, Hot Wheels/Matchbox cars, card games, bubbles, small LEGO kits, and new books for all ages. A collection box is located in the Coxe Commons for donated items.

“We are so proud of Caleb and Stella for their initiative and compassion,” said Theresa Long, head of school at MMI Preparatory School. “Service is one of MMI’s foundational pillars, and we believe that when students learn to serve others, they discover the true meaning of leadership, empathy, and community. These projects remind us that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact.”

MMI encourages families, students, and community members to participate in both drives as the School embraces this season of generosity and gratitude.

For 146 years, MMI Preparatory School has been providing dedicated area students with a comprehensive and inspiring sixth through twelfth-grade college preparatory program that maximizes each individual’s academic, social, and character potential in preparation for success in college and beyond.

The school is accredited by the Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools (PAIS) and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (M.S.A.-C.E.S.S.). MMI is a school where every student can reach their full potential: academically, ethically, and socially.

For more information about MMI Preparatory School, visit www.mmiprep.org or call 570-636-1108.