Here in the Mehlville School District there is a special school district teacher that makes a difference in and out of the classroom. With the holidays coming up, help is needed to spread the cheer.

Mrs. Leah Black, a social worker for SSD, noticed the need for an “Adopt A Family” program after seeing the wide range of family situations throughout the district. For the past 11 years, she has teamed up with teams, clubs, and community members to make her idea, the Community Caring Project, come to life. Joining together the two ends of the spectrum, Black sees it as a rewarding opportunity.

“Mehlville School District is unique in that our district covers a variety of socio economic statuses,” Black said.

This holiday season, the Community Caring Project will help 30 families (109 people.) When the program began, Mrs. Black would individually wrap and deliver the gifts to the homes of those in need. Today, organizations in the district wrap presents and give them to the school counselor to arrange for pick up.

“I am so thrilled that I get to ensure a little joy for those in need,” Black said.