Many people in La Crescenta call USC Verdugo Hills Hospital their community hospital. The hospital is where many local students were born, parents work and, from time-to-time, an injury or sickness leads to their hallways.

The second and third grade teachers at Monte Vista Elementary School thought gratitude would be a positive way to begin 2021 and, after returning from winter break, asked students to reflect on the many things they were grateful for during the pandemic. The teachers gathered the students’ reflections and decided to thank frontline workers who tirelessly work to keep the community safe. They asked students to write letters expressing their gratitude. Not only did the students learn about letter writing formats, they were able to express gratitude for something beyond themselves.

Students worked on the letter writing process with their teachers and asked hospital staff questions like: Are you scared? Are you tired from the long shifts? How do you get to spend time with your family? They also wrote sweet words such as, “I hope this letter warms your heart,” and “Even though I don’t know you, I thank you.” As a staff, the Monte Vista teachers were deeply moved by their earnest and heartfelt sentiments. 

The students’ families also donated money to fund a meal for a unit at the hospital. The donations allowed 100 meals plus some beautiful sweet treats to be provided to the hospital. The teachers worked with local small businesses and were overcome by their generosity, even as they faced their own hardships.

In addition to gratitude extended to second and third grade families for their letters and monetary donations, Gardenia Market & Deli was thanked for its generous partnership in making and packaging 100 meals and Cake Creamery donated beautiful sweets.

All involved with the project understood they didn’t have to look far to see that there is much good in the world!  

         Written by Monte Vista teachers Silvia YI and Michelle BLESSINGER