Last year, sixth graders Alyssa Searor and Maddy Graham came up with the idea of doing something you enjoy, like making crafts and then finding a way to help others benefit from these efforts. With the guidance of their teacher, Christine Haessig, a group "Crafting for the Cure" was formed and a goal was made. These dedicated students raised over one thousand dollars thanks mostly due to the generosity of our Oswego community. Donations collected were presented in equal amounts to Golisano Children's Hospital and Oswego Oncology.

This year, fifth and sixth graders have continued this good work and will be ready to share their crafts with the community on Thursday, June 11th from 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Oswego's Farmers' Market.

Haessig said, "The students have written the publicity and have constructed their own creations, many of which have inspirational messages researched by the students."

At the farmers' market the various items will be available with students asking for donations for the same worthwhile causes as last year.

According to Haessig, they also have a beautiful breast cancer awareness quilt made and donated by a former FPS parent, Mrs. Kathy Taylor. Students have decided to raffle off the quilt to raise additional monies.

"The quilt was a wonderful offering that really surprised the students," said Haessig. "The students are beginning to realize when you do good, good comes back to you."

Haessig also noted that students often work during the last time block at school, and some even volunteer to stay and work until 5 pm, while others choose to take supplies home.

"These students are dedicated to the cause, which is personal for so many," she said.

Student Jake Jenkins shared, "I lost my grandpa to cancer when I was a little boy. It's hard for me to remember him, but when I craft with Mrs. Haessig, I feel like I am doing something nice for my grandpa. I feel like I spent some time with him."

Student Kyla-Rae Barnes added, "My grandma is a survivor and my uncle is currently in the battle, so I love to help out to honor them and everyone affected by cancer."

Many crafts are made with supplies provided to the school by JoAnn Fabrics in the Oswego Midtown Plaza, and the Greater Oswego Chamber of Commerce waived their fee for the Farmer's Market.

"We greatly appreciate the continued support from our community for this great cause," said Haessig.

Students get ideas simply by looking at the supplies in front of them.

Fifth-grader Alix Pauldine has been working on Tic Tac Toe bead boards, miniature basketball hoop games, inspirational bookmarks and door hangers, while Sixth-grader Hailey Gill has been busy working on inspirational wooden wall hangings.

Wish Bracelets are the craft that students have spent the most time making and have included inspirational messages.

"Without wishes there would be no hope,
So close your eyes and make a wish,
then tie this bracelet to your wrist...
When it falls off or the threads wear through,
that is when your wish will come true!"

This Thursday night the community will be able to meet the students from Fitzhugh Park School during the weekly Oswego Farmers' Market and support their wish for a world without cancer!