HUDSON – Three students from the Advanced Math and Science Academy are combining a love of history with community service, just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Bodie and Shelby Caissie, who are ninth-graders, and Cameron Hermann, an eighth-grader, have launched “Hug a Senior.”
For a $20 donation, a gift bag will be assembled and delivered to a senior in town for Valentine’s Day. The bag will include a balloon, a plush friend, some treats and a handwritten note from a student.
“We got the idea while we were singing Christmas carols at the senior center,” said Shelby Caissie.
“It’s kind of a themed holiday,” said her brother Bodie.
Proceeds will help the trio fund an opportunity to travel to Europe and explore some of the battle sites of World War II.
The trip is being sponsored by the school.
“We are all very passionate about history, especially WWII, and are excited to experience history in person,” according to a donation letter written by the students. “When we will be traveling, in the summer of 2024, it will be the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Of course, this will make the trip even more memorable.”
The trip will include visits to Normandy, Berlin, Paris, London and Bastogne.
“It’s the tech advances I find so interesting,” said Hermann of his interest in World War II.
The students need to raise $4,500 each. In addition to “Hug a Senior,” they are seeking financial donations and sponsorships, as well as items for a possible raffle.
The trio, who are also members of Boy Scouts of America Troop 2 in Hudson, reported that the fundraiser is going well so far.
Contributions may be sent to Christina Hermann, 11 Causeway St., Hudson, MA 01749.
The deadline for orders is Feb. 9, with delivery scheduled for Feb. 12.
For information about the fundraiser or the trip, email [email protected].
