WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. (PIX11) — An eight-year-old student from Scarsdale made a difference in the community, giving out free pizzas to 300 families in need as part of a national initiative.

The distribution event was held Thursday afternoon at the Church of St. Bernard in White Plains. 

As part of Catholic tradition, many people celebrate what is called ‘Name Day’ in the same way they would celebrate a birthday. Instead of having a party, eight-year-old Sebastian Lamonarca chose to celebrate by giving back. 

“They really need more nourishment,” Lamonarca said, referring to the families who attended the event. “They try to seek for it but they just can’t afford it, so we want to show them that we care and show them that they’re not alone.”

The distribution is part of the ‘Pizza for a Smile’ national campaign started by the nonprofit The People of Hope. It’s an initiative to give back and understand the impact a small gesture and smile can have on someone’s day. 

Martha Chuchcuca has a family of five and says the free pizza and bi-monthly food pantry at the church are much needed. 

“Coming from a kid to think about giving to others, this, I think, is really, really nice,” said Chuchuca. “I never thought that an eight-year-old would be doing this.”

Rev. Robert Morris of The Church of St. Bernard also serves as the executive director of Alcance Latino — an organization providing resources to White Plains immigrant families. The organization spearheads the church's bi-monthly food pantry events. 

“There’s a great need to assist families who have come to the country recently and are just trying to get their bearings and get started,” said Morris. 

Peter Rossignuolo is the owner of Roaming Woodfired Pizza, which was one of three pizza trucks serving up a hundred pizzas each at the event.

“A lot of people are struggling check by check, and I think this is a great help,” Rossignuolo said. “At least it’s a hot meal.”

As Sebastian celebrates his name day, a special occasion celebrated on the day associated with the saint someone is named after, the third grader hopes to be an inspiration while spreading joy and generosity. 

“I feel like I’ve been a better person, and I want to make all the people happy,” said Sebastian. “That’s my dream.”

While Sebastian is not yet sure what he’s doing for his next name day, he said there is a chance he could be back at the church giving out even more pizzas to families in need.