HARRISON, Ohio — People have lots of reasons to welcome the holiday season. To many in Harrison, it’s a time for giving back.
Kayla Morris and hundreds of students participated in the Southwest Local School District and the City of Harrison Mayor's Fund's annual canned food drive Saturday at Harrison High School.
"Some kids stay inside on a Saturday like this, but it feels good to get out and help our community,” said 12-year-old Kayla.
She said she looks forward to the event every Christmas.
"When we start collecting at our schools, I get really excited. Because this is one my favorite things," Kayla said.
Besides 25,000 canned goods, people donated piles of winter clothes and bags beyond bags of toys for over 90 families in need.
The Harrison football team came to help.
"It's going to be a joy, actually, to see everyone smiling and happy and getting stuff they need," said Mike Wade.
Mike Morris, the school district’s director of facilities and communications, says no one can remember how many years they've done the drive, just that's it's gone on for generations.
"I'm a Harrison alum, class of 1996, and I remember helping out when I was a student here," Morris said.
Morris said they had the most donations he's ever seen this year and he hopes it will continue for generations to come.
“Instill a spirit in them and have them donate for the right reasons, and obviously they've more than surpassed our expectations," Morris said.
Some items will be donated to food pantries across the school district and some families even got to take home space heaters.
