Manchester Township School District (MTSD) is proud to celebrate the outstanding success of its first-ever district-wide Code Blue Initiative, led by dedicated and compassionate Manchester students. Through this effort, students provided critical support to individuals experiencing homelessness during the coldest months while extending Manchester’s impact far beyond its own community.
Thanks to the students’ hard work and coordination, donations were delivered to five separate Code Blue sites across Ocean County, including helping to establish the first-ever Code Blue site in Southern Ocean County at St. Mary's in Barnegat! This extraordinary accomplishment reflects Manchester’s commitment not only to serving its own town but to supporting the county as a whole.
“We are incredibly proud of our students for stepping up in such a caring and meaningful way,” said Superintendent of Schools Diane Pedroza. “Their dedication to serving both our town and the county demonstrates the true heart of Manchester Township School District and beautifully reflects our motto, Excellence by Example.”
At the heart of this success were the MTHS Key Club students, who committed their time each day to sorting and bagging the donations collected throughout the school district. Their efforts were guided and supported by dedicated teacher advisors, Ms. Theresa Zacchia and Mr. Kyle Pecora, who oversaw student work, provided organization and direction, and ensured the initiative ran smoothly. Their work went well beyond basic organization, as students carefully evaluated each item to ensure donations were appropriate, usable, and distributed with dignity and care.
In addition to processing donations, students also assisted with organizing the district’s Care Closet. When items were identified as more suitable for older individuals or outside the scope of the closet’s purpose, students responsibly redirected those donations to the Code Blue collection. This thoughtful approach ensured that all items were placed where they would have the greatest impact.
The level of coordination, student involvement, and care taken throughout the entire process truly reflects the best of Manchester. From sorting and organizing to preparing items for delivery, students approached this first-ever initiative with excellence and pride.
MTSD’s students and families truly outdid themselves with their Code Blue efforts. What began as a school-based service project grew into a countywide effort rooted in compassion, leadership, and a deep commitment to helping others in times of need.
