DALLAS, Texas - Sixth graders from Heritage Christian Academy in Rockwall visited Texans on Mission this week to deliver nearly 30 handmade blankets 
to families in need.
Instead of holding a traditional Thanksgiving party, the students gathered to cut and tie fleece blankets as a service project. Teacher Lynn Westmoreland, who has led the effort for 13 years, said the work teaches students the value of serving others.
“We talk to them about this being a labor of love,” Westmoreland said. “By the time we’re finished, their backs hurt and their hands hurt, but that’s what an act of service is. It’s giving your time and energy for others.”
Westmoreland said the project has created lasting connections for students, who often recognize Texans on Mission in news coverage years later. Some even ask about volunteer opportunities at Texans on Mission beyond the classroom.
Savion Lee, Royal Ambassadors coordinator with Texans on Mission, said the visit helps students understand how their skills can make a difference.
“Bringing kids this young to learn about how volunteers love and serve their neighbors helps them see there are all sorts of ways to serve,” Lee said. “And 
that it's local and opportunities are always near and available. It also shows them they don't have to wait until they're older to be able to serve others. They can begin right where they are.”
Westmoreland echoed Lee’s sentiment, “I think they're seeing that there's so many different opportunities that they can do. It's not just, I'm going on a mission trip through my church; it's our community. It's everywhere.”
The blankets will be delivered to families in the Rio Grande Valley as part of the Texans On Missions’ annual Christmas outreach.