A collection drive sponsored by the Tyrone FFA resulted in 295 items being donated to the Eagle’s Closet in the middle school.

The Eagle’s Closet makes common personal care products such as deodorant, lotion, feminine products, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, soap, hats, gloves, and socks available to students who need them.

“The closet is located in the Middle School Guidance Office, but is open to all students in Middle and High School,” said guidance counselor April Campbell.

All products are free to students in need throughout the year.

“We did not reach our goal of 350 items, but it was gratifying to take nearly 300 products to restock shelves, as it has been shared that 51% of our students are on the reduced or free meal program,” said senior Rayann Walls.

The donations were made by 17 Tyrone Area FFA members, 15 non-members, and one community member by November 18.

The committee to supply the donations was formed in late September as a way to benefit the community, as well as help FFA members, earn hours toward FFA Degrees.

According to the National FFA Organization, community service is defined as the engagement of individuals or groups in an organized activity that contributes to the local, national, or world community. They consist of activities that make the community a better place to live and work in.

“Our (FFA) chapter advisor shared the information about the need and then a committee was created which worked under the guidance of officers and the advisor to justify how to convert donated products to service hours,” said FFA Chapter President Hailey Houck.

The Freshness For All student committee of nine members established three clear SMART Goals and developed detailed plans on how to reach the goals.

Catie Ewing served as the chair, and Brienn Jones kept reports as the recording secretary. Ethan Dasher, Tasanee Hensley, Nora Hoy, Leo Veit, Rayann Walls, Beau Zeigler, and Sarah Zimmerman all assisted as members of the committee who kicked off the campaign in mid-October.

“As an FFA advisor, I promote our members to volunteer with organizations such as fire companies, food banks, humane society, and more, or to just help their neighbors in need. The reason our FFA chapter offers various activities, both volunteering and product donations, is to meet the needs of all members no matter their socioeconomic levels. These students learned a tremendous amount about teamwork, collaboration, communication, and overcoming obstacles,” said FFA advisor Tiffany Hoy.

Products will continue to be collected throughout the year; contact Tyrone Area FFA Chapter Freshness for All Committee by emailing Tiffany Hoy at [email protected] or call 814-684-4240 ext. 3131.