Students enrolled in the "Quest" class at the Haddam-Killingworth Middle School (HKMS) took part in a service learning project to help those in need this holiday season. As part of the project, students collected food donations and helped out at two local food banks. 

9 students of the Quest Service Learning Project accompanied HKMS teacher and 5th grade transition counselor Renee Molnar to the Amazing Grace Food Pantry in Middletown and the remaining 6 Quest students accompanied HKMS principal, Mim Wagner, to the St. Vincent De Paul Soup Kitchen the week before Thanksgiving. 

The students at the food pantry weighed the donated food, calculated the weighed amounts of food, stocked shelves and swept the floors. The students at the soup kitchen served over 100 meals at lunchtime. 

The Quest class meets every other day for one trimester. "We discuss and explore topics like self-esteem, communication, positive decision making and managing emotions," according to Molnar.

The Quest Skills for Adolescence was developed through the Lions Club International, the largest service organization in the world. This program helps students become more self-confident, communicate better both at home and at school, make good decisions and resolve conflicts and avoid alcohol and drugs. As part of the Quest program, HKMS students have been working on planning and carrying out a community service learning project.  

"I think I speak for all of us that we all have a lot to be thankful for each and every day but especially this Holiday season," said Molnar.