WOODBURY — The Nonnewaug High School FFA and FBLA are holding their annual toy and clothing drive from Nov. 21 until Dec. 9. This event is where students and staff are encouraged, if possible, to bring in clothes or toys for donations.

“We are happy to be working with the FBLA to volunteer our time and effort for the toy and clothing drive,” said Kathleen Gorman, an NHS agriscience teacher and chapter co-advisor. 

Many students and faculty enjoy this event as it helps give to the Santa Shop in Woodbury, an organization that collects toys for those in need. This annual event also goes to the Caring for Bethlehem gift facility, where donations are accepted for the town.

Items that have been requested from the people in these towns are listed in the FFA and FBLA Google Classrooms. Students are encouraged to sign up to bring in things for those needing gifts. If students are interested in donating but are not in one of these Google Classrooms, students can talk to one of the teachers listed atop the Google Classroom page. 

“It feels good being able to give back and support all members of the Region 14 community,” says Adam Lengyel, an NHS business teacher and advisor of the school’s Future Business Leaders of America chapter. 

Gorman, Lengyel, and agriscience teacher Eric Birkenberger are the main organizers of this event. 

“This event is a cooperative event between the FBLA and the FFA,” Birkenberger says. 

The toy drive is held every year towards the end of November and beginning of December. The school community participates to help give to all of these families throughout Woodbury and Bethlehem.

 “The FFA motto encourages us to be members that are ‘Living to Serve,’ to give back to our community,” said Gorman. “Our chapter is excited to continue this tradition and support our community.”