Indian Valley FFA students help get Share-A-Christmas toys off to next destinations
NEW PHILADELPHIA (WJER) (Dec. 19, 2023) – Indian Valley FFA students have been getting to serve as Santa’s helpers this week.
More than 55 of the kids were involved with the toy distribution at New Towne Mall today for families in the Share-A-Christmas program.
The students were responsible for sorting and boxing the toys, directing traffic, and delivering the presents to the cars of families in the program.
Junior Emmalynne Berger says they were keeping busy.
“We are giving boxes to the people that are less fortunate as far as Christmas gifts go,” Berger said.
Senior Kolton Arnold was helping guide and load cars and take information from recipients.
“I just know how it feels to come from a background that doesn’t have much,” Arnold said. “I love to just give back when people are going through hard times.”
Sophomore Jake Moss says they were able to give each family in the program a large stuffed box or two, thanks to the WJER – Indian Valley FFA Toy Drive earlier this month and other efforts.
“It’s really great that we have all the people that can help in the community and help out with other people in the community that are struggling,” Moss said.
Senior Hunter Miller says it was rewarding work.
“It feels good to give back to the community, said Miller.
Indian Valley agriculture educator and FFA advisor Taylor Ryan says the kids have been doing a fantastic job.
“They really enjoy it,” said Ryan. “This is a great opportunity for them to get out and see the community and really see what they’re doing and how it impacts others.”
The FFA students in all had more than 1,200 boxes of toys to give out to families today.