By Hub City Times staff

MARSHFIELD – Columbus Catholic School students are spreading sunshine through a program called “Columbus Cares.”

“Teri Wilczek, president of our Parent Association, brought the idea forward as a way for our families to connect with those less fortunate during this difficult time,” said Columbus Dean of Students Lori Wieland. “She had spoken with Rich Seubert, former NFL player and Columbus Alum, who mentioned spearheading a similar initiative taking place where he resides.

“As Teri works for the Marshfield Clinic, she has seen first-hand the hardship individuals are navigating while in isolation and recognized the importance of doing something similar in Marshfield, as the ripple effect extends far beyond the walls of clinic/hospital facilities. Numerous families are limited in their ways to support loved ones like grandparents living at home, the elderly in assisted living, and others, during the Safer-at-Home order and it has taken its toll in many forms.”

Through the program, Columbus families were asked to create cards for local elderly, patients, and shut-ins that were isolated due to Safer at Home.

The project was 100 percent volunteer, requesting 300 cards.

The call for cards was sent out on Friday, April 10, and by Monday over half of the requests had been fulfilled.

Isabella Hannasch, first grade, at left, and Anchaleeya Hannasch, fourth grade, work on their cards. Submitted photo.

“(It’s so) much more beyond, simply, doing something good by supporting others. While students get to continue their Christian stewardship from a whole new perspective during this pandemic, they also can find their own way of coping with its impacts through self-reflection, communication, and creativity,” Wieland added.

“There is not one person who is ‘immune’ to the effects of Covid-19 and while those students who are older have a better understanding of what is going on, it also allows our younger students a way to process our current situation and discuss their feelings with their families at home. Everyone’s mental health is being impacted during isolation and this project gives students and families another outlet to stay connected while building their sense of community.”

Organizers say that the project will continue for the duration of the Safer at Home order.

“We have had such an overwhelming response, we would love the opportunity to keep lifting spirits, spreading messages of hope, and bringing smiles to others,” Wieland said.