Manchester Township High School senior Mia Caruso is calling on the community to come together in support of those who have served our country. An active leader within her school, Mia is a member of the National Honor Society, the Commanding Officer of the school’s NJROTC unit, and a committed participant in school and community activities. She has launched her National Honor Society Senior Service Project titled All Hands in For Veterans, an initiative dedicated to supporting the Veterans Affairs hospital in Toms River. Through her service project, she is collecting donations of essential and comfort items to benefit local veterans receiving care at the VA hospital.
Requested donation items include personal care items, new clothing and socks, books, puzzles, games, art supplies, lap robes, blankets, kitchen supplies, cleaning supplies, and feminine hygiene products. New items are preferred.
The inspiration behind All Hands in For Veterans is deeply personal. Mia’s father has served nearly 30 years in the United States military and continues to serve today. Growing up in a military family and participating in MTHS JROTC events throughout the community helped shape her strong connection to veterans and their stories.
“We live in one of the largest veteran communities in Manchester, and it has always meant a lot to me to connect with veterans through MTHS JROTC events and town activities,” Mia shared. “This project is my way of giving back and showing appreciation to those who have given so much in service to our country.”
Mia’s passion for service will continue beyond high school. She plans to pursue ROTC on the Army pathway in college, with the goal of commissioning into the United States Army after graduation and serving as a pharmacist.
The donation drive runs from February 9 through March 6, and all members of the community are invited to participate. Please drop the following donated items at Manchester Township High School, located at 101 Hawks Way, Manchester, NJ, during the hours of 7:30 AM and 1:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Personal care items:
New clothing, socks
Books
Puzzles
Games
Art Supplies
Lap Robes
Blankets
Kitchen Supplies
Cleaning Supplies
Feminine Hygiene Products
(New items preferred)
By contributing, residents will play a meaningful role in supporting local veterans and honoring their service through this student-led effort. Community support will help make a lasting impact, reinforcing the powerful message behind All Hands in For Veterans that service, gratitude, and leadership begin at home.
Questions? email: dsilvestri@mtschools.org or hstaples@mtschools.org