St. Mary's students serve seniors holiday lunch
By Melissa Muntz Community Reporter

(l to r) Alice Collette, Theresa Nolli, Pauline Rourke and Mildred MacIssac enjoy good food and good company at St. Mary's Elementary School's 11th Annual Senior Thanksgiving Lunch. MELISSA MUNTZ

Shrewsbury - More than 100 area seniors were served a traditional Thanksgiving meal by a very special

group of waiters: the sixthand

seventh-grade students at St. Mary's Elementary School in Shrewsbury.

The school's 11th annual senior lunch was held Nov. 16 in the school cafeteria. The event is an opportunity to invite St. Mary's older parishioners into the school to thank them for their support over the years.

"They get a chance to see what their help does, and the kids get a chance to give back to the seniors for what they do for them," event Chair Paula Hayeck said.

By offering the holiday meal to all older members of the parish, Hayeck said, the school is able to bring a community together that may not have other invitations this season.

"A lot of these people don't get to see their grandchildren often, so it's a lot of fun for them to see the kids perform."

More than 25 volunteers helped to put on the senior lunch, helping to wrap silverware, decorating the cafeteria, and staffing the food stations. More than 120 parishioners were served this year, including 93-year-old Helen Jarzobski, who has attended 10 out of the 11 lunches.

Jarzobski missed last year after a car accident left her with several broken toes. Back this year with a walker, she said she is more thankful now than ever for the opportunity to take part in the event.

"I love people, I love being with them and the people here are so nice and gracious," Jarzobski said. "I don't even know half of the people here, but it doesn't matter. I'm here and I'm just glad to be alive."