Students at St. Mary's School in Landover Hills, Maryland, launched the Cards of Hope initiative to support those affected by wildfires in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
“It felt humbling and fulfilling to know my words and small contribution could bring comfort to someone going through such a devastating experience. While I can’t replace what was lost, I hope my message helps them feel supported and a little less alone,” said Kamatu Mansaray, an eighth grade student at St. Mary’s School.
Wildfires have caused significant destruction in Southern California, particularly in Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties. The fires began in November 2024 and intensified in December, displacing thousands of residents and damaging homes and schools. By January 2025, firefighters had contained most major fires, but recovery efforts continued.
The school's National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) organized the initiative, collecting more than 200 handwritten cards with messages of encouragement and faith, along with donations of grocery store and restaurant gift cards for those in need.
Laurie Maier, the assistant principal at St. Mary’s School, proposed the idea to the principal, LaSandra Hayes, who approved the project. The school then coordinated with the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to facilitate the outreach.
Students and staff promoted the effort by distributing flyers, making announcements at prayer services, and collecting contributions. NJHS members visited classrooms, gathered donations, and personalized each card. Leading up to the shipment in January 2025, students worked together to assemble and prepare materials for delivery.
As the initiative progressed, students gained a broader understanding of the wildfire’s impact. Initially, some were unaware of the number of students affected. After learning that more than 1,000 students in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles had been affected, they recognized the widespread need for support.
“It felt meaningful to provide support to those experiencing challenges,” said Luke Lares, an NJHS member at St. Mary’s School. “Helping others, even in a small way, makes a difference.”
Mansaray echoed that sentiment. “I hope when they read my card, they feel a sense of warmth and encouragement. I want them to know people care about them, even from miles away, and there is always hope for rebuilding and healing.”
The Cards of Hope initiative is one of several outreach projects led by the National Junior Honor Society at St. Mary’s School. Each year, NJHS targets specific groups in need. One project, Wagons of Hope, provided the National Children’s Medical Center with wagons filled with art supplies for pediatric patients. The school also assembles Blessing Bags for individuals experiencing homelessness in Washington, D.C., delivering 827 bags on Christmas Day last year.
Students have supported military personnel overseas by mailing care packages with snacks, personal items and handwritten letters. They also built Buddy Benches on the playground to create a welcoming space for students feeling left out.
“When we heard about the fire victims in Los Angeles, our response was, ‘How can we help?’” said Maier.
Each card contained messages of faith, prayers and encouragement. Some students wrote their own messages, while others wrote on behalf of families who donated gift cards. Contributions ranged from $10 to $100.
Lares shared an example of his message: “I am so sorry for what you are going through. Please know that you are not alone. So many people care about you and are praying for you. I hope this small gift and message brings you some comfort and reminds you of God’s love and faithfulness. Even in hard times, He is always with you.”
Eighth-grade student Rexton Ebai reflected on the significance of the effort. “I wanted to be a part of the Cards of Hope project because it was a simple but meaningful way to support people who are going through incredibly hard times.”
The school awaits an official response from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, but early feedback has been positive.
“Our goal was to make someone’s day better,” Maier said. “Acts of kindness like this reflect our identity as a Catholic school committed to service.”
For other Catholic schools considering similar initiatives, Maier encouraged taking action. “No cause is too big, and no act is too small. Service projects provide an opportunity to make a tangible difference. We hope our small gesture reminds those facing challenges that they are not alone and that there is always hope,” she said.
