The Lower School is collecting new, unwrapped toys, games, and books now through Dec. 14. The donations will go to local nonprofit A Wider Circle, which provides free holiday gifts for families who otherwise would not be able to afford them.
A Wider Circle HR & Administrative Director Kristin McKinney attended Lower School Gathering on Mon., Nov. 12 to announce the drive to students and share some information about poverty in the region. Combating poverty can be a huge, difficult task, she said, but "little things, like having a present under the tree, can really make a difference in someone's life."
Volunteering can also have a huge impact, Ms. McKinney noted. This is a lesson that all Holton students learn well through a variety of service opportunities throughout the year, including around the holidays. Later this month before they dismiss for Winter Break, Lower School students will spend a morning spreading cheer and serving our community at various locations, including A Wider Circle.
The school has been partnering with A Wider Circle for more than five years, and several Holton alumnae have gone on to work at the organization and helped kick off prior year's toy drives.
Those who would like to donate new toys, games, and books for this year's drive can deliver them to the Lower School lobby for the next two weeks.