Holiday Generosity Reaches Every Student at Abelard Reynolds School No. 42

Just in time for the holiday season, students at Abelard Reynolds School No. 42 were surprised this week with an outpouring of generosity from the Monroe County Federation of Social Workers, which purchased gifts for every student in the school. More than 400 students received presents ranging from bicycles and iPads to Barbie Dreamhouses and gift cards, turning an ordinary school day into a celebration.

The effort began last year when the Federation’s Women’s Committee set out to give back to a Rochester city school. After reaching out to several schools, the group connected with Principal Washington and partnered with School No. 42. That first year, the initiative focused on just three classrooms; the response from Federation members quickly exceeded expectations, with volunteers eager to support more students than were initially included.

Building on that momentum, the Federation returned this year with a larger goal: reaching every student in the building. Students were asked to share two wishes, and Federation members stepped up in force to make them happen. Social workers, administrators, case aides, and security staff coordinated efforts to ensure each child received meaningful gifts, often going beyond what was requested.

The result was a school filled with excitement, smiles, and holiday cheer. Leaders from the Monroe County Federation of Social Workers, including Deborah Jackson, said they hope to expand the effort in the future. “We are so glad to be able to add some smiles and cheer to all the children at School No. 42,” Jackson said. “We were blessed to be able to do this, and we hope to be able to do more next year.”