As Thanksgiving approaches, Foster Road Elementary has once again organized a pre-holiday meal to promote gratitude and community spirit, while giving back to those who support the school all year.

Foster Road in La Mirada hosted its 16th annual Thanksgiving Dinner on Nov. 20, drawing hundreds of its students, families and community members for a free dinner of traditional roast turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn and dinner rolls, provided by Polly’s Pies.

“We wanted to be able to give back to families and let them know we’re all in this together. Sharing, giving and being appreciative of one another is very important to the way we thrive as a community and as a school,” said Foster Road Elementary Principal Dr. Jean Maddox.

Further reflecting the value of community support, Southeast Academy and La Mirada High School students and members of the Kiwanis and Rotary clubs and Calvary Chapel and Living Faith churches, helped by serving the meal.

“No matter how much or how little we have, there is much in life to be thankful for and Thanksgiving most of all is the perfect time to reflect on that,” said Norwalk-La Mirada Unified Interim Superintendent Ginger Shattuck. “We are thankful for all of the families throughout the District, and for the continued support of our communities.”

Shattuck also thanked the City of La Mirada for its continued support and participation in the event year after year.

Community organizations were on hand to provide families with information on dental, health and insurance services. Foster Road Elementary’s cafeteria was decorated with festive holiday flare, courtesy of the school’s students and teachers.

“The dinner table represents a familiar place to celebrate success, bond and share conversation,” said Norwalk-La Mirada Unified Board of Education President Margarita Rios. “Every year, Foster Road promotes a sense of family with this event, which is truly indicative of the great communities, families and support we have here in our school district.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS

THANKSGIVING1: Students from La Mirada High and Southeast Academy (pictured) helped served Thanksgiving meals during Foster Road Elementary School’s annual Thanksgiving dinner.

THANKSGIVING2: Every year, Foster Road Elementary School hosts a Thanksgiving dinner for hundreds of its students, families and community members.