Still a couple of days to add cans, $ for annual FHS-SGA Love Kitchen aid
Farragut High School’s annual drive to collect money to buy mostly canned goods for The Love Kitchen in East Knoxville is going down the home stretch.
Once again led by the school’s Student Government Association, the drive began Monday, Nov. 4, and will end Friday afternoon, Nov. 22, when SGA members will deliver thousands of collected cans to The Love Kitchen.
“We have 84 members in SGA, led by Catherine Martin (president), Heidi Huang (vice president), Anna Kate Harris (secretary) and Sadie Watkins (treasurer),” Martin said.
SGA’s club sponsor is Elizabeth Blankenship. Also involved is principal Dr. John Bartlett.
Farragut Primary, Farragut Intermediate and Farragut Middle schools, along with Northshore Elementary School, “are also hosting the collection of donations,” Martin said. “They are inviting families to donate cans, cash, checks or through online donation to support our drive. …
Ten seniors have been involved all four years.
“This year we decided not to set a specific goal for a can/cash total,” the SGA president said. “While I believe that it is so important to collect as many cans as possible, I think that focusing on the numbers distracts from the heart of the project.
“If we’re able to help one family, I feel as if we did our job well. It’s more than numbers, it’s about being there for our community.”
To donate online, use this link: https://farrhs.givebacks.com/store/items/1126982
“Students at FHS may bring in cans, cash and checks to their first block class from now until Nov. 22,” Martin said. “Students at FPS, FIS, FMS and Northshore may bring in all donations to their homeroom classes from now until Nov. 22.”
Concerning the satisfaction felt by helping those who are food insecure, “I am blessed to have grown up without ever having to worry about food being on the table when I come home from school,” Martin said “I understand that there’s people in my school, community and neighborhood who don’t possess that same reassurance.
“By using the leadership, gifts, time and resources that I have been blessed with, I can provide support for my neighbors that are in need,” she added. “We all just need someone to lean on, and I want to be that someone for people. I believe that my life is about more than just me, so I find satisfaction in being a part of something greater than myself.
“Being a part of SGA has been such a joy, and I’ve loved getting to participate in such an amazing event every year. It is especially special, rewarding and humbling to lead this cause this year. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the support of my community.”
