>> makes me feel good. >> reporter: to understand why they are doing this we have to show you where the givers are from. their school sits just steps from the water's edge. when hurricane sandy hit last year, it devastated the community. people rallied to help. realizing this was a teachable moment the school put together a lesson on giving back. they partnered with a charity called family to family which donated the money to buy the party gifts that will go to a food pantry or to needy kids at other schools. >> although these children may be experiencing a tremendous challenge, that there is still someone out there who needs their help. >> reporter: it's a message that's spreading. >> how are we going to give to other children for their birthdays? >> we could send stuff that they don't have. >> reporter: at p.s. 317, another elementary school not far away, 85% of the students qualify for the free or reduced