Wheeling Central Catholic High School is gearing up for its highly anticipated 54th-annual canned food drive. This event not only showcases the school's commitment to the community but also provides a valuable learning experience for students. With over 6,000 donation bags set to be distributed across various neighborhoods, the drive aims to replenish the shelves of the Catholic Charities 18th Street Center after the busy Thanksgiving season.

"Join the Wheeling Central Catholic Food Drive - A Season of Giving"

Students and Staff on the Front Lines

In the front row, we have CCHS Campus Minister Kristy Riedel along with Emma Blum, Isabella Brown, and Hazel Tatich. In the back, Brady Kerr, Vincent DeCarlo, and Luke Miller stand ready. These students and staff members are at the heart of the canned food drive, working together to make a difference. On Monday, CCHS Principal Rebbeca Sancomb emphasized the significance of this day, stating that they take 100% of their students, faculty, and staff out into the neighborhoods to drop off the donation bags. The bags are easily recognizable, and people know exactly how to fill them and place them out on Saturday.

This initial step sets the tone for the entire drive, as it brings the school community together and gets the ball rolling. It shows the students that they have a role to play in helping those in need and instills a sense of community spirit.

The sight of these dedicated individuals distributing the bags is a powerful reminder of the impact that one small act can have. It inspires others to get involved and contribute to the cause.

Distribution and Collection

This morning, the students, faculty, and staff will hit the streets of Wheeling to distribute over 6,000 donation bags. These bags will be placed on the doorsteps of homes in Woodsdale, Dimmeydale, Elm Grove, Warwood, and other neighborhoods. The goal is to fill these bags with canned goods and other non-perishable food items.

On Saturday, they will make their rounds again to collect the filled bags from the residents. This process ensures that the drive is a true community effort, with everyone playing a part in collecting and donating food.

The organization and coordination required for such a large-scale drive are no small feat. However, the team at Wheeling Central Catholic is up to the challenge, working tirelessly to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Helping Those in Need

The items collected from the drive will be sorted and sent to the Catholic Charities 18th Street Center. This center plays a crucial role in providing assistance to families in need in and around the Wheeling area. After the Thanksgiving season, the pantries often get depleted, and this drive helps to restock them.

In addition to replenishing the shelves, the donations will also be used to prepare holiday/winter baskets for families. These baskets bring a little bit of joy during the festive season and help families get through the winter months.

By participating in this drive, students learn the importance of giving back and making a positive impact on the lives of others. It is a valuable lesson that stays with them long after they graduate.

Setting a Record

Last year, the drive collected 1,700 lbs of food. This year, Principal Sancomb hopes to beat that number. The drive is a source of pride for the school, and they are determined to make it even more successful.

With the entire student body, faculty, and staff involved, there is a sense of unity and purpose. Everyone is working towards a common goal of helping those in need.

The competition to collect more food adds an extra layer of excitement to the drive. It motivates everyone to do their best and contribute as much as possible.

Teaching Important Values

Apart from helping families in need, the drive also serves as a valuable teaching tool. It demonstrates to students the importance of being "connected to their community and using their God-given talents to serve others."

At the core of the school's mission is the idea of thinking and acting like Christ, and service is a key component. The canned food drive is a tangible way for students to put this into practice.

By the time they graduate, students take away the importance of service and community involvement. It becomes a part of their identity and shapes their future actions.