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Food drive helps feed 82 families this holiday

By Bella Hodge
Jessamine County FFA Reporter
In the weeks leading up to Jessamine County Schools Thanksgiving break, the Jessamine County Future Farmers of America Chapter conducted their annual food drive collecting over 10,000 items for those in need this holiday season.
The food drive tradition began in 1946 as a small community service project and has blossomed into an event that significantly impacts the community. This year marks the 63rd consecutive FFA Food Drive, one of the longest running FFA service projects in the state of Kentucky. East Jessamine High School collected a total of 2,104 items, Jessamine Career & Technology Center collected 2,760, and West Jessamine High School collected 4,261. In addition, the Bus Garage, Central Office, Red Oak Elementary, East Jessamine Middle School, and The Providence School donated 1,268 items. Overall, 10,393 items were collected, allowing the FFA to provide 82 families with a Thanksgiving meal and fill the local Salvation Army.
East and West Jessamine High schools each held a school-wide assembly to celebrate the donations and encourage continued giving. Entertainment was provided by the high school choirs and Mr. Warren Beeler, executive director of the Governor’s office of agriculture policy was the keynote speaker. Beeler spoke to students about his unique agricultural experiences and how he has learned the importance of giving back to others.