Three students from Behavioral Health Associates’ program at Willow Academy in Lehighton put their baking skills to good use Friday in honor of the recent National Muffin Day.

Mason Diaz, Severus Vazquez and Makayla Dong joined teacher Julie Bonser in whipping up a batch of delicious chocolate chip muffins for Family Promise, a local shelter in Nesquehoning.

The students, Bonser said, embraced the opportunity to combine their love for baking with the act of giving back to their community.

“We saw it as a really good opportunity to get involved with the community,” Bonser said. “The kids enjoy it, and then we can build on it and talk about kindness and helping others.”

The students’ initiative aligned perfectly with the movement behind National Muffin Day, which was established in 2016. Inspired by a simple act of kindness - a tech worker handing out muffins to homeless people on his way to work - the day has evolved into a platform for spreading compassion and fostering connections within communities.

The “Muffin Movement,” Bonser said, encourages individuals and groups to bake and share muffins with those in need, be it homeless shelters, soup kitchens, or other organizations supporting vulnerable populations. The seemingly small gesture, she added, holds immense power, offering not only a delicious treat but also a warm reminder that they are not alone.

With Family Promise experiencing a surge in occupancy, the shelter was in need of donations, including food items.

“They have been asking for donations such as food items and clothing,” Bonser shared. “Our classroom is excited to help out by sending them some chocolate chip muffins.”

The act of baking and sharing muffins, BHA officials said, served as a valuable learning experience for the students, instilling in them the importance of kindness, empathy, and community service.

“We hope they take away baking skills and life skills, but also just how to be kind and help others,” Bonser expressed. “It’s great when you can put a smile on someone’s face and do things for people who may need a little lift.”

The muffins were delivered to Family Promise on Friday afternoon.