Stewart Elementary students raise over $3,000 for Children’s Hospital with holiday market

Students at Stewart Elementary School on Thursday set up shop to sell candy, toys, crafts and other items to their peers as part of their annual holiday market.

But the proceeds weren’t going to them.

Instead, the money was being collected by Stewart administrators who then, at the end of the day, donated it to UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.

“It’s more thankful to give than receive,” said fifth grader Aislyn McMahon, 11.

The event, known as Kids for Kids, allows students to make or bring in items to “sell” to each other during the holiday market.

The market — and other activities such as a campfire, dodgeball game and talent show — takes place in lieu of a traditional, homeroom-style Christmas party, said Stewart physical education teacher Justin Miller.

“We all get to participate,” said fifth grader Hazel Dynys, 11. “It’s a fun way to raise money for kids.”

Kids for Kids is part of Stewart’s Choose Love enrichment program, which aims to promote kindness, personal responsibility and respectfulness.

Thursday’s donation to Children’s Hospital totaled $3,020, Miller said. In its four years, Kids for Kids has raised more than $9,000.

“This is all kid-driven,” he said. “Teachers are here to supervise and help.”

Miller thanked the students’ parents and families for their support.

“I enjoyed raising money for kids,” said fifth grader Avery Mudrinich, 10.

The most rewarding part of the day to Claire Sites, 10, is being able to give to kids who are less fortunate than themselves.

“It’s a fun thing, and we’re doing it for charity,” Claire said. “That’s nice.”