Streams’ Children For Children effort raises $2,343

In its 21st year, the school’s Children for Children event raised $2,343.29 to benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

The 2025 theme, “Love Can Lift You Up,” celebrates the power of compassion and action. This year’s effort was coordinated by teachers Lauren Bogus, Jen Graceffo and Katie McIntyre.

“Through our beloved Children for Children event, we continue to teach students that small acts of kindness can make a big difference,” Mrs. Bogus said.

Each year, the school selects a different charitable organization – the only prerequisite is that the organization must help children.

“Students have been learning about the mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities—an incredible organization that strengthens families and provides comfort when children need medical care most,” Mrs. Bogus said. “From creating welcome cards to collecting donations and assembling welcome bags, our students are lifting others up, one kind gesture at a time.”

Students conducted a raffle during the school’s S.T.A.R. Night open house on Thursday, May 8. Families could purchase raffle tickets for the chance to win several student-made items and teacher experiences. In addition, throughout the week of May 5-9, students and staff participated in theme days and a coin drive.

• Monday, May 5: be a ray of sunshine! (Bring pennies)
• Tuesday, May 6: Color Streams with kindness! (Bring nickels)
• Wednesday, May 7: Kindness can lift you up! (Bring dimes)
• Thursday, May 8: USC can lift up others! (Bring quarters)
• Friday, May 9: Kind and cozy! (Bring any coin or bill + dance party!)

With the slogan, “A Simple Act Can Make a Difference,” the Streams’ Children for Children community service initiative was first launched in the 2004-05 school year. The goal was simple: expose students to other children in the world who are in need, and show them how they can make a difference.

“Together, we’re showing our students—and the world—that kindness is powerful, love is lifting, and even the smallest hearts can make the biggest impact.” Mrs. Bogus said.

Since 2005, the Children for Children initiative has raised more than $105,000 to benefit local, regional, national and international organizations. Charities have included Connecting Children with Champions, UNICEF Tsunami Relief, Katrina School Fund, CORE Organ, Dominican Republic Outreach Program, Heifer International, National Military Family Association’s Operation Purple, Casey’s Clubhouse, Jameson’s Army, Grady’s All Stars, The Education Partnership, Global Links, Our Clubhouse, South Hills Interfaith Movement, Beverly’s Birthdays, Best Buddies, the Greater Pittsburgh Area Food Bank, Canine Partners for Life, the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, and, this year, the Ronald McDonald House Charities.