Christmas has proven itself to be the time of year where the community gets together to give back to those less fortunate in hopes of bringing cheer to families in need. This sentiment has not gone unnoticed at California Middle School.
Counselor Marcia Bibb said, since 2008, the Peer Helpers group at the middle school has sponsored The Giving Tree. A letter is sent to families who may be in need, requesting needs from clothing to gift ideas, Bibb said.
"The Giving Tree only serves middle school students and their families who may be struggling," she said. "Every family gets eight gift tags per student. That could be for two pairs of pants, two shirts, one pair of shoes and three wishes under $30."
These wishes can be anything from art supplies to video games.
"We can also give a family wish as a whole," Bibb said.
Through the year, Peer Helpers raises money for the tree through concessions and donations. Donations come from a variety of sources including the student council, community support, church youth groups, Twin City 4-H and others.
In addition to clothing and gift needs, a food drive is held during Red Ribbon Week in October for families in need.
"We also give personal care items, like shampoo, hair brushes and other things," Bibb said.
All forms for the Giving Tree are turned in by Dec. 11 to allow shopping time for the Peer Helpers. Once everything is collected, students swing by and pick up their bags of goodies.