As we prepare for our own Thanksgiving traditions, I would like to pause and offer one more reflection on the importance of our new Thanksgiving Food Drive to support the St. James Food Pantry. The Food Pantry at St. James works each day to combat hunger in our local area and serves the entire Emmanuel Family of Parishes in the Archdiocese of Detroit, including the Church of the Holy Family, St. James, St. Joseph, and St. William.

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Last week, Mr. Bumpus delivered the final donation from St. Catherine. In total, he made eight full carloads of food, and the staff at St. James greeted the last delivery with celebration and relief. When the first carload arrived on November 7, we learned that their emergency shelves were nearly empty. By the time the eighth delivery was made, the pantry was at full capacity. They shared that they now had enough food to provide for all 140 families who rely on their services, thanks in large part to the generosity of the SCA community. It was a proud and humbling moment.

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We are grateful to all our families for your contributions to this effort. Your kindness has strengthened and lifted our neighbors in a very real way. May God continue to bless you with health, joy, and peace during this season of gratitude.

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Yesterday, November 16, Mrs. Betsy Crapps and a group of our students joined the staff at St. James once again and packed 485 food boxes. The team at St. James expressed deep appreciation not only for the food that SCA provided, but also for the gift of our time and service.

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This spirit of giving continues into our next outreach effort of the season, the Stuff the Squad Car Toy Drive. SCA is proud to partner with the Wixom Police Department for the eighth annual collection. Chief Phil Langmeyer has often shared how inspired he is by the generosity of our students and families, and on December 2 he will personally visit our campus to thank us and pick up the donations.

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Students are collecting new, unwrapped toys and books for children who have been affected by violent crime. Our goal this year is 500 toys in support of Crime Stoppers of Michigan. As a small incentive for fun, students have the chance to earn a delayed start on Monday, January 5, 2026. The class that collects the most toys will also enjoy a special class breakfast.

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To serve others is a privilege. To serve alongside such generous young women is a blessing. In gratitude for all you do and all you give, I wish you a joyful and grace-filled Thanksgiving.

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— Principal Judith Hehs

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