NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Brayton Elementary students gifted handmade wreaths to North Adams Commons residents and patients.

 

The sixth- and seventh-graders brought some holiday cheer to the seniors on Tuesday afternoon with their paper wreaths made from paper-hand cutouts.

 

Teacher James Holmes said the same group of kids also made the paper chain that adorns the city's main Christmas tree and wanted to do something more.

 

"When we finished the chain, we threw the idea out there for the kids to see if they wanted to do something for those who may be less fortune at or who may not have a lot of visitors during the holidays," Holmes said. "So, we put together some hand wreaths."

 

Students went from room to room and gave out wreaths and sang Christmas carols. One resident even had gifts for the students and gave them drawings.

 

Sixth-grader Skyler Sprague, whom Holmes said was integral in organizing the project, said he felt it was important just to visit the residents at North Adams Commons.

 

"On Christmas, we are always with our families and there are people that aren't with their families," Sprague said. "I can't imagine what my holiday would be like without my family because friends and family are what makes you happy."

 

Holmes said he hopes the students can see the "other end of the spectrum" because many of the students do not spend a lot of time around elderly people. 

 

He added that he hopes these community orientated projects instill a sense of altruism in the students. 

 

"We really want them to appreciate this kind of stuff so as they grow up they won't have to think about doing kind things for people," Holmes said. "It will just come naturally."