Many residents throughout Chelmsford and all of MA have connections to the NY/NJ area.  A group of advocates, spearheaded by the Chelmsford PTOs, has decided to take matters into their own hands and ‘adopt’ a group of schools in the heavily affected Midland Beach area of Staten Island.  A low lying region less than half a mile from the ocean’s edge, families there have lost absolutely everything…their homes, cars, in some cases loved ones, and all of their personal belongings.  These families have been displaced, are homeless, living in shelters, and have been traumatized as many of them barely escaped the wrath of the flood waters.  They are in dire need of so much to get them back on their feet.

Members of the South Row PTO have met face-to-face with Principals and Parent Coordinators at each of the 3 Elementary and 1 Intermediate school in Midland Beach.  These leaders are all overwhelmed with getting the schools themselves (most evacuated for weeks) and the families back on their feet and have been extremely grateful for offers of help and generosity.  Together, the Staten Island schools and Chelmsford PTOs have organized a Gift Card Drive through December 21^st.   These donations will be hand carried to Staten Island and distributed by the Principals directly to the families, spent as only they can determine since every situation is different.  There is no minimum – every donation will make a difference during these extraordinary times.  Please see attached flyer for a list of the specific gift cards accepted, collection sites and coordinator contacts.