SAN ANTONIO, Texas – The University of the Incarnate Word Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) completed their second-annual Cardinal Crates initiative for Hidden Cove Elementary.
 
"Hidden Cove is a school that serves about 98% low-socioeconomic students, and the majority of their parents speak Spanish only," said SAAC President, senior cross country and track runner, Karina Velez. "UIW student-athletes wanted to give back to the school system because we believe every child should have an opportunity to go to college, and hopefully our small token of appreciation can encourage students to believe they can, too."
 
All Cardinal teams donated a crate full of school supplies, such as markers, crayons, folders, Kleenex, disinfectant wipes and construction paper to every classroom. In all, the Cardinals filled 30 crates.
 
Student-athletes walked into every classroom of Hidden Cove Elementary, and teachers and students greeted them with overwhelming gratitude and joy.
 
Student-athletes got to enjoy Hanukkah songs, class president speeches, dance parties and so much happiness.
 
"The gift of giving is priceless, and these [college] students have no idea how they encourage students to be givers and pursue college," stated Hidden Cove Elementary Principal, Roxy Freemen.