Students from Yonkers’ Montessori School 31 marched several blocks from their school to Curran Court, a public housing complex for senior citizens, where they caroled for the residents as part of the school's annual caroling program.
The residents appreciated the singing so much that this year they pooled their money together and bought the students books for the holidays, said Currant Court site manager Paula Kubicek.
"It's just wonderful that the young children have taken such an interest in the elderly community," Kubicek said. "Some of the residents live alone and don't always have a lot of people to see during the holidays so events like this brighten everyone's spirits. Everyone just loves it and really looks forward to it."
Betty Ann Malec, 66, was one of the residents in attendance, and said the performance was better than she could've imagined.
"I didn't make this holiday celebration last year but being here now makes up for it," Malec said. "I was feeling a little depressed about the recent school shooting, but these kids are more important than me. They're doing such an amazing thing being out here for us, and they're just so brave. It's been a great experience for me."
Ashton Walsh, 8, was one of the many students singing, and said he was looking forward to the event because he knew it was going to make the residents happy.
"I'm here with my music class singing for the seniors because it's something good to do," he said. "We practiced for a while and I really enjoyed it because it's a chance to do something fun outside of the school. I hope that they enjoy our songs, and I think they will because it's almost Christmas and that's a good thing."
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