HANCOCK, Mass. — For many, Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and unity. Hancock Elementary School embraced this spirit on Thursday by hosting a community Thanksgiving feast for seniors.

 

The children had a major role in organizing the event, from peeling the potatoes to creating the centerpieces to performing. 

 

"Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful for what we have. To be thankful for the communities that we live in. Thankful for the families that we have, our friends," Principal John Merselis III said. 

 

"And by opening our doors and inviting people in, I think we just embrace that idea." 

 

More than 50 seniors visited the school for a Thanksgiving lunch prepared by the school's students. In addition to those who attended, the students made enough for 40 takeout orders and to feed themselves and the school's staff. 

 

The lunch was kicked off with student performances on the drums, playing "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" using boomwhackers, and a play showcasing the preparation of a Thanksgiving feast, which caused rumbles of laughter. 

 

"[The event] gives [students] a great opportunity to practice their life skills such as cooking and creating things for people, and also [build] their self-confidence and just public speaking," said Samantha Lincoln, first and second-grade teacher.