Willow Springs Learning Center students and families donated more than 300 toys and clothing items to be given to local families in need this holiday season. Sussex Outreach Services (SOS) will distribute the donated items after students deliver the wrapped gifts to St. James Church on December 15. The Toy Drive has been a Willow Springs tradition for more than 20 years.
“The time, effort and emphasis on giving to others that the Willow Springs staff shares with their kiddos shines through all year, but especially with the Toy Drive,” explains Sussex Outreach Services Executive Director Jennifer Waltz. “Each child walks to St. James Church, no matter the weather, with a gift and a song to share while learning that they are helping a child that may not otherwise receive a gift.”
“It is amazing to see the smiles and excitement on our students’ faces as they drop off toys and clothing for other children,” commented Willow Springs Learning Center Principal Renae MacCudden, Ph.D. “We greatly appreciate our families supporting this cause. Seeing the long line of students delivering gifts truly encompasses the spirit of the season and kicks off the holidays for our staff and students!”
Students began bringing items to school on December 5. On December 15, each 4K student carries a gift for the short walk to St. James Church located next door. SOS volunteers are there ready and waiting for the children. It has become tradition for the students to sing a short song for volunteers before walking back to Willow Springs Learning Center and resuming their school day.
The Willow Springs Toy Drive has provided thousands of gifts over the years. “Each one helps to make the holidays brighter for another child,” says Waltz. ”It’s so important that an education include lessons on kindness and caring for others and I love our Willow Springs staff and families who model and create excitement for giving at the 4K level.”