Morristown West Trojans Give Back

By Andrew Goodman- Editor, Dawson Hunt- Staff writer

Part of the many boxes that were donated to the Thanksgiving Drive

Morristown West’s Annual food drive was a success with a total of over 50 boxes being donated, feeding at least 200 Hamblen county residents. Every year, West High, in partnership with FBLA and Central Services, holds a Thanksgiving food drive to collect food for families who otherwise may not have anything to eat on Thanksgiving. This event also showcases the giving spirit of the Trojan Nation. The top two donations were from Kim Hall’s and Raymond Farmer’s third period classes.

The top two donors were asked to share what encourages them to donate. Farmer stated, “We made up two boxes, and we discussed that if we all gave at least one or two items we could help a couple of families have a great Thanksgiving. We also discussed that it would not cost much to do so, and we always need to be willing to help others who may be struggling this time of year, especially with everything going on this year.”

Taylor Dewald, Madison Kite, and Kim Hall deliver their class Thanksgiving Drive Donations

Hall shared, “My students donated approximately three boxes. Prior to the start date of the food drive, I shared with my class the statistical information Mrs.Whaley [FBLA sponsor and leader of food drive] put together showing the dire need faced by many in our community. We talked about the power of making a difference in the lives of the people around us. I encouraged students to get out and do something to earn a little money so they could purchase donations themselves rather than asking their parents to get something for them to bring in to contribute. We talked about the wonderful feeling of doing something to benefit others. I shared with my students that on Thanksgiving I take a little time during the day to think about how my small contribution would mean that a family would enjoy a nice Thanksgiving meal. I have had students in the past come to me to share that their family had received one of the donated baskets of food. I'm always humbled when kids share something so personal with me. It makes me feel even more committed to helping. Doing something for others is one of the best ways we can in turn do something for ourselves.”

Farmer and Hall’s third period will receive a five dollar TCBY gift card for each student as a thank you for their generosity. Everyone who donated is greatly appreciated and we hope for an even greater amount of donations next year!

Jasmine Velasquez, Central Services Worker Kim Weaver, Jessie Ramos, Abraham Melchor, Miller Smith, Oswaldo Guzman, Director Ashley Hux, Abigail Lamb, and Andrew Goodman load the Central Services truck with food donations.