The Holiday Mall, initiated three years ago, offers students a chance to gift their family members during the December holiday celebrations. In January, teachers and staff contribute new and gently used gifts, ranging from toys and household items to jewelry and clothing.
Jill Becknell, Clemente’s 8th-grade counselor, coordinates the donations. The stored items accumulate throughout the year, filling a storage closet to capacity by December. Additionally, parishioners at New Covenant Fellowship Church contribute gifts and gift cards for the school’s Giving Tree.
Opening in the first week of December and operated by dedicated teachers and staff, the Holiday Mall allows any student to shop without restrictions on the number of gifts they can choose. Staff members also take care of wrapping the gifts. This year, Clemente has distributed over 2,000 gifts to nearly 500 students so far.
Courtesy of MCPS