School No. 23 students give back to the community through Hoops for Hunger food drive and free-throw challenge

Rochester, New York – Francis Parker School No. 23 was buzzing with excitement Friday afternoon as students came together for Hoops for Hunger, a student-led event focused on helping families in need while building a sense of community and responsibility. The gym echoed with cheers, laughter, and encouragement as students turned a simple free-throw challenge into a meaningful act of service.

At the heart of the event were ten students from the Choose Wisdom program, a social-emotional learning group that emphasizes empathy, teamwork, and civic responsibility. These students stepped onto the court for a friendly free-throw competition designed to raise awareness about food insecurity and support the Father Tracy Center. While basketballs bounced and shots were taken, the entire school took part in a larger mission by donating non-perishable food items for families in the community.

Each participating student was paired with an adult partner, including parents and guardians, adding another layer of connection to the event. The partnerships turned the challenge into a shared experience, blending fun with purpose. Students smiled as they took their shots, encouraged by classmates and adults alike, while knowing their efforts were contributing to something far beyond the gym floor.

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The excitement reached another level when Superintendent of Schools Dr. Eric Jay Rosser joined the event. He teamed up with a student for the free-throw challenge and later raised the stakes by offering $10 to any student who could make a single basket. The challenge was quickly accepted, and the student delivered, sinking the shot and drawing loud applause from the crowd.

“This program is an opportunity for our children to engage in civic readiness and engagement,” said Dr. Rosser. “This whole event was organized to provide them with an opportunity to give back, while also enjoying their time.”

Hoops for Hunger was held as part of an assembly for fifth- and sixth-grade students, who filled the bleachers and cheered enthusiastically for their peers. Their support created an uplifting atmosphere that highlighted the school’s strong sense of unity. Teachers and staff also played an active role, encouraging students and reinforcing the message that helping others is a shared responsibility.

Beyond the basketball challenge, the food drive added a layer of friendly competition throughout the school. Every class participated, collecting canned goods and other non-perishable items to donate to the Father Tracy Center. As part of School No. 23’s house system, students and staff are organized into four multi-grade groups that foster collaboration and school pride. The house that collected the most food items earned a pizza party, motivating students to give generously while working together.

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The house system helped turn the food drive into a collective effort, with students reminding one another to bring in donations and celebrating each new contribution. Boxes quickly filled with food, reflecting the strong response from families and staff who supported the initiative.

While the event was filled with energy and excitement, its deeper purpose remained clear. Hoops for Hunger showed students that service does not always require grand gestures. A free throw, a can of food, or cheering on a classmate can all play a role in making a real difference for someone else.

By blending play, teamwork, and generosity, Francis Parker School No. 23 created an experience that resonated beyond a single afternoon. Students left the gym not only proud of their shots or their house’s success, but also with a better understanding of how their actions can positively impact their community. Hoops for Hunger served as a reminder that when young people are given the opportunity to lead and give back, meaningful change can start right at school.