(Pembroke Pines, FL)  --  Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz hosted a luncheon to celebrate the success of Central Park Elementary School's student book drive to benefit seniors, as a part of her G.I.F.T. (GET IT FIXED TODAY) Program. 

In August, Wasserman Schultz challenged the students to collect new and used books to present to the residents of Classic Residence by Hyatt in Plantation, a rental independent living and assisted living retirement community. 

"I was very pleased to see how enthusiastic the students were to help design the project," said Central Park principal, Muriel D. Knabb.  "Every single student in the fifth grade was a part of it, from the kickoff assembly, to announcing the drive and making the fliers, to collecting, sorting and now, delivering the books."

The presentation of their G.I.F.T., more than 1,000 donated books, took place during the luncheon celebration. 

"We're delighted to be the recipients of Central Park Elementary's book drive," said Bonnie Andriotis, executive director of Classic Residence by Hyatt in Plantation.  "I know the children worked hard on this effort; and we look forward to embarking on a special relationship that will benefit the school."

The G.I.F.T. Program, which Wasserman Schultz plans to continue throughout her career, will provide inspiration and encouragement for South Floridians from various backgrounds to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need in their own communities.

"It is amazing to bear witness to the profound lessons that children can teach us," said Wasserman Schultz.  "These young people made a decision to do something to make a difference in the lives of others and that's exactly what they went out and did.  By introducing our youth to volunteerism, the GIFT program will educate and inspire young students to realize they can change the world, and provide them with opportunities to accomplish this goal."

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Left to right, front row: Central Park Elementary students join Beulah Dworkin a resident at Classic Residence.  Left to right, back row: Dee Knabb - Central Park Elementary principal, Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz, and Bonnie Andriotis - Executive Director of Classic Residence by Hyatt in Plantation.