A record number of 24 Lynnville-Sully families participating in the Sharing Tree program indicate there is a need within the community. This holiday season, Lynnville-Sully students, their families, and members of the community are making sure those needs are met – no family will go hungry this Christmas and presents will be under the tree for deserving children, no matter the financial hardships their families may be facing.
Each year, the school partners with 1st State Bank and other businesses and community organizations to form a Sharing Tree. Sharing Trees, located at both Lynnville and Sully branches of 1st State Bank, are decorated with tags reflecting the wish lists of Lynnville-Sully children from the community whose families are facing difficult times. The program is voluntary and completely confidential. Community members may pick a tag, purchase a present, and return the wrapped gift to 1st State Bank. As part of the program, Lynnville-Sully kindergarten through eighth grades contribute by participating in a food drive. This year, grades 6-8 competed against one another to bring in the most food donations, and the elementary grades were allowed to color in sections of a paper present decorating their classroom door when they contributed to the food drive. The friendly competition resulted in a total of 1,375 non-perishable food items donated! On Tuesday, Dec. 20, middle school student council members filled boxes with a variety of the donated food items to share with participating Sharing Tree families.
Noah Johnson and Abby Squires package boxes with food for Sharing Tree recipients.
“It’s great to see the entire K-8 student body get into the holiday spirit and donate to those in need in our community,” said Joel Harthoorn, middle school science teacher and student council advisor.
Area businesses and organizations have stepped up as well: Janco Industries Inc. donated hats, gloves, and scarves; Lynnville Women’s Club donated frozen hamburger; Sully Christian Reformed Church donated quilts; and Sully Lions Club donated turkeys. School administrators will deliver all of the items to Sharing Tree recipients before Christmas.
