Hoda Kotb decided to give back to kids who like to give back.
The TODAY co-host visited PS 117 in Queens, New York, where the motto is: “It’s cool to be kind.” Artwork that embraces the importance of being kind is displayed throughout the school, which runs from kindergarten through fifth grade, while kindness boxes and students dressed as peace warriors appear in the hallways and “Kindness Radio” plays on the loudspeaker.
As part of their ongoing efforts to be kind, the students are organizing a toy drive during the holidays.
Hoda talks to students at PS 117 in Queens, New York, who are determined to spread kindness.
“Usually kids want, want, want, want for this time of year. But our kids are committed to giving,” school counselor Keisha White told Hoda in a segment that aired on TODAY on Dec. 17.
“Many of our students come from very, very rough backgrounds. And when they come here, we teach them consistency and kindness. We see it paying off,” she added.
White said the students have a “genuine love for each other,” which the students exhibit for Hoda.
“Kindness is the most important thing,” a girl named Dana told Hoda during an interview.
Hoda (right) sits down for a chat with some students to hear their thoughts on why kindness is important.
“School is like your second home, and our goal is to make you feel at home,” says another student, Imane.
“I noticed that when I do something nice, it starts a chain reaction,” added a student named Dmitri.
That kindness is reflected in their drive to toys, which the children know can have a lasting impact.
“My parents did a lot of things for me. I am very grateful to them. And the toy drive, which could create a better community for future generations,” said a student named Joshua.
PS 117 receives federal funding to help students from low-income families, while staff members also use their own money to ensure students and their families have winter coats.
Hoda surprises students with donated gifts for their toy drive.
“Our faculty give because they want to. Every time I’ve asked for something, they not only give, but they say, ‘How else can I help?’” White said.
In the spirit of giving, Hoda surprised students with a slew of gifts for their ride, telling them that Macy’s and Toys “R” Us had donated 2,000 toys along with a $5,000 gift card to Macy’s, prompting wild cheers from the kids .
But that wasn’t all. Hoda called the students into the room where she revealed other big news.
Hoda distributes gifts to the students in the spirit of giving back.
“You do so many things to help other people, so you know what I was thinking? Maybe it’s time to help you out,” she said before counting down, ending with a curtain behind the opening on stage, revealing a Christmas tree and dozens of wrapped presents.
“Macy’s and Toys”R”Us have teamed up to make sure each of you gets your own gift,” Hoda added, prompting loud cheers before handing out the gifts to the very excited students, who opened the ceremony. them in delight.
“Happy Holidays!” they shouted in unison as they lifted their new presents.
This article was originally published on TODAY.com
