Accessibility to healthy and nutritious meals varies from family to family. That is why food drives are conducted to counterbalance the lack of meals in local areas. People who donate can keep shelves in food pantries stocked and raise awareness about hunger in their communities. In Woodford County, we hold an annual food drive sponsored by the school. Students donate cans to their first block teachers, who collect them and add them to the class amount. The 2024 Fall Food Drive began last week, and we are excited to see which classes bring in the most donations. 

Last year, the students of WCHS donated a total of 4,432 items and $4,475. Mrs. Crabtree’s advisory with 721 items/dollars was the highest donations from a single class. As of right now, the community as a whole has donated 4,761 items/dollars. People who are not students have contributed to 66% of the total donations so far. WCHS students are sitting at about 27%. The last 7% has come from the staff. As of now, Woodford is almost halfway to a total goal of 10,000 donations.

Students in NHS or Beta may bring in 30 cans to receive 10 hours of community service. This is a great opportunity to get service hours while helping needy families. Just a few donations can make a big difference in a family home. The food drive represents areas of the community where volunteers are needed. The Food Pantry up by Falling Springs feeds families throughout the week. The people there work exceptionally hard, and extra food and hands would be appreciated. It is important as a student and as a member of society to contribute in any way you can. Find ways to help, donate, and volunteer whenever possible. 

As Thanksgiving approaches and we all celebrate with our loved ones, let us think about those not as fortunate as you may be to have a Thanksgiving dinner. Bring in extra cans from your home, donate a few dollars, or volunteer to help Mrs. Basanta with the food drive. You could make a difference in our community.