Harborfields Students Support HACO Food Pantry Through Annual "Read-In"

GREENLAWN, NY — Students and families at Thomas J. Lahey Elementary School turned story time into an act of community service during the school’s annual Read-In on Oct. 22 and 23, bringing books and food donations to support the Harborfields Alliance for Community Outreach (HACO) food pantry.

The longtime tradition, now in its 30th year, brings together students, parents, and teachers to share the joy of reading while giving back to neighbors in need. This year, families gathered outdoors with blankets and favorite books in hand, transforming the school’s campus into a series of cozy reading spots.

Under crisp fall skies, all 26 Lahey classes spread out across the lawn, playground, blacktop, and even the popular GaGa pit. Parents and volunteers joined students to read stories aloud and encourage a love of literacy in a relaxed, community setting.

“It is always fun to see groups of students along with community members enjoying a book together,” said Dr. Andrea Horowitz, assistant principal of Thomas J. Lahey Elementary School. “We know that the adults take the time to choose the perfect book to read, and it definitely is appreciated by the students.”

In addition to reading, families donated dozens of nonperishable food items—including cereals, canned vegetables, soups, and granola bars—to help restock HACO’s food pantry.

“Our friends and families who are food insecure need us right now,” said HACO President Maggie Boba. “We serve hundreds of people at HACO, and without community and schoolwide support, we would never make it each month. When we all do something—no matter how big or how small—we make a difference.”