Bishop Gibbons High School’s art program continues to amaze and inspire me. The students decided to pivot from making art for themselves to making art for children who are needier than they are.

They don’t mention it, but I know that many of these students are as needy as anyone, but they don’t see it that way.

They know what it’s like to be alone, frightened, and poor; they cherish empathy and practice it.

The Army Of Good has sent boxes and boxes of used jewelry, metal objects, and stuffing, and Sue Silverstein and the children are putting it to good use.

This week, they send bags of toys out to churches, homeless shelters, and low-income families for the next several weeks. Many of these students have spent years in refugee camps and seen their own homes and families destroyed.

The Christmas spirit is deeply embedded in them, and thanks for giving them the tools and materials to do this work.

But many of these kids could use some help as well.

The Mansion/Refugee Fund is low right now – $124 -. I could use some help so that I can help these families and the Mansion residents with Christmas.

Please consider donating to the Mansion/Refugee Fund at Christmas if possible. You can do so via Paypal, [email protected], via  Venmo Jon-Katz@Jon-Katz-13.

If you prefer, you can also send a check to Jon Katz, Mansion/Refugee Fund, P.O. 205, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816,

Any funds will go to support the refugee families and the Mansion residents at Christmas. And thanks.