Christmas is the season for giving not receiving. It is the perfect time to get into the holiday spirit by giving back to others, especially those who need it most. For many years Hempfield Area staff and students have had the opportunity to do just that through the Seton Hill Toy Drive.
Mr. Thompson, school counselor, now runs the program. He took over two years ago and works with 60 staff members and numerous student organizations who ban together to fulfill 68 wish lists. Each group chooses a family to sponsor and provide with $60 to $75 worth of shoes, clothes, and toys to brighten up a child’s Christmas season as well as the parents.
The 13th is go time. This day at Hempfield Area is known as “drop off day”. During this day, the staff and students bring all the gifts wrapped or purchased with love depending on the parents preference. After they are all packaged up, retired staff drop them off at Seton Hill’s facility. They are then sent to the parents of the children to surprise their children on Christmas morning.
Helping brighten up a child’s Christmas is something that warms a Hempfield heart. Giving back to the community brings joy, love, and Christmas cheer to everyone. Spreading smiles from our school to the homes of families is already in full swing, and we hope to continue this tradition for many years to come.
