Montini Catholic High School’s peer ministry team recently wrapped up their Neighbors in Need fundraiser for the Glen Ellyn Food Pantry. The drive ran for one week, from Oct. 19-23, and students were asked to bring in much-needed paper products (tissues and paper towels) to help restock supplies at the food pantry.

In addition to the paper products, the peer ministers challenged homerooms to bring in cleaning/personal products, specifically shampoo, dish soap, and laundry detergent.

“The homeroom that brought in the most items received a dress-down day,” said Kelly Davis, the assistant campus minister. “With so many events cancelled or postponed this year, the peer ministers were really excited to be able to host this fundraiser. We are really appreciative for the support from our school community.”

Students helped food pantry operations manager, Rich Wloszek, load up the food pantry truck in late October.

“We would like to give a huge ‘shout out’ to the peer ministry team at Montini Catholic,” said Wloszek, posting his appreciation on the Glen Ellyn Food Pantry’s Facebook page. “They noticed that our pantry was short on personal items and soft goods, and they quickly acted by hosting this much-needed drive. Several shopping carts of paper goods, soaps, and cleaning products were collected and our staff was very happy to help unload the bonanza. Thank you, Montini Catholic, and to all that donated to this wonderful collection.”

The faith-based peer ministry group was formed in 2018. It is currently made up of 35 junior and senior members. Fifteen members are new, and 20 are returning members. Their mission is to inspire and motivate by example and to encourage students to engage in faith-based activities at the school and in their communities.

“We want to increase opportunities for students to grow in their faith,” explained Katie Miller, a theology teacher and peer ministry advisor. “We think that providing opportunities led by the students themselves will make them more meaningful and desirable.”