Good Will-Hinckley was a stellar residential facility that provided a home and a helping hand to children in need.

Many have heard about the impact the closing of the residential programs has had on students and staff. As a superior learning institution operating for more than 100 years, the impact of Hinckley school spans farther than the confines of our community.

This time of year, I would traditionally be working with students from Glenn Stratton Learning Center (GWH's Day Treatment Program) to plan the Tree of Hope for the Festival of Trees.

This tree signified the hope that the school offered to every student. Students were invited to share a Christmas Hope, which would then be placed on the tree. Some students asked for tangible items, but most responded with the hope for continuation in Good Will-Hinckley programs, wishes to spend Christmas with their Hinckley family and thanks for having Good Will-Hinckley as their home.

I am deeply saddened that children do not have Good Will-Hinckley to call home this Christmas. And the community misses out on the heartwarming experiences that were hallmarks of the festival, as well as the many community events that were open to the public that are no longer being offered.

I am happy to have spent almost 10 years teaching at Good Will-Hinckley, while coming to know fantastic students and staff. I will share all that I learned from my Hinckley experience in my new teaching position. Remember the Good Will-Hinckley family this holiday season as you recall the times you visited campus and know the school still offers a helping hand to the boys and girls of the Glenn Stratton Learning Center.

Brian M. Cole

Oakland