A number of families in need with students at three Haverhill middle schools received a little extra help putting turkeys on the table for Thanksgiving meals.
Staff at Dr. Albert B. Consentino, John Greenleaf Whittier and Caleb Dustin Hunking Schools helped identify students most in need with insight from school resource officers. As in past years, Michael Jarvis of Jarvi Productions helped out, providing 51 turkeys. Deputy Police Chief Stephen J. Doherty Jr. explained his department’s role.
“School resource officers identify on occasion some of the families that may be struggling through the holidays,” Doherty told WHAV. He added the effort is similar to the annual Heroes and Helpers program, where Haverhill police and firefighters and Pridestar Trinity EMS staff help children who otherwise wouldn’t have an opportunity to buy Christmas gifts for themselves or their families.
Jarvis said he has donated more than 100 turkeys, ranging from 10 to 24 pounds, over the last few years.