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“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for Me'.” Matthew 25:40  

During a Student Council meeting sixteen years ago, one student whose heart was filled with compassion for victims of Hurricane Sandy posed a simple yet powerful question: "What if our entire school came together and did something like a Turkey Trot to help people who just lost everything?" That single question sparked an idea that would not only evolve into the very first St. Matthew Turkey Trot, but a precious tradition that continues to bless countless lives each year. What began as a single act of compassion quickly became one of our schools treasured legacies!

Over the past sixteen years, our Turkey Trot has become much more than a fundraiser. It has become a living lesson in what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Each year, our students learn that even though they may be young, God can use them in powerful ways to make a difference in the lives of others. They discover that every lap, every donation, and every act of kindness is an opportunity to “BE THE LIGHT” and bring the hope of Jesus to someone facing a horrific challenge.

This year, we continue this tradition by running for someone very close to our hearts: former St. Matthew student Braedon Breeding. After receiving his third liver transplant on April 20, 2026, Braedon continues a long road of recovery. On November 13, our school family will once again unite to show God's love in a tangible way by helping ease the financial burden of this lengthy hospital journey.

On the day of the Turkey Trot, students will run laps around our soccer field. Parents are welcome to come and serve as cheerleaders.

PLEASE NOTE: WE ARE WATCHING THE WEATHER AND DETERMINING THAT A LATER START TIME FOR BOTH GROUPS WOULD BE BETTER!

As a result, Preschool through Grade 4 will run from 2:15 - 2:45 p.m.

Grades 5 - 8 will run from 3:00 - 3:25 p.m. with members of the Class of 2023.  

Please make sure that your child is prepared with warm and comfortable clothing, including outerwear, hats, and gloves.

As students collect pledges, donors can give a one time donation or pledge per lap. All donations will be given to Braedon and his mom to help defray their medical and other accrued expenses throughout these past six months. To get a new form please check the school newsletter. WE ARE ASKING THAT PLEDGE SHEETS BE TURNED IN FRIDAY MORNING.

Students who raise over $50 will receive a T-shirt with the Turkey Trot logo. Students raising over $100 have the option to select a sweatshirt or a T-shirt with the same logo.

What started with one student's compassionate idea sixteen years ago continues to remind us that God often uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. Thank you for helping us continue this beautiful tradition of Chriatian love and support.

Together, let's once again “Be the Light” one step, one lap, and one act of kindness at a time!

Mrs. Palka