Video: Itawamba Co. Students Pack Bus with Donations for Food Drive

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FULTON, Miss. (WCBI) – Thanksgiving is less than a week away, and students in Itawamba County are hoping to make the holiday extra special for those in need.

They have spent the past month collecting more than 27,000 pounds of food to donate to two local food pantries.

Now they’re packing those food items into school buses, as part of their Pack the Bus Food Drive.

“And this time of the year, it’s hard for lots of individuals, so we just want to see how much we can collect, and help everybody that’s in need in Itawamba County,” said organizer Romona Edge.

Students have collected about 13,000 more pounds of food than they did last year, and they’re excited to help out.

“It’s kind’ve rainy, but knowing what all’s going on, it’s really great to be here,” said student Audrey Yielding.

Especially if it means taking home a trophy for bringing in the most donations.

“They like a little friendly competition between the schools, of course, and our kids here in Itawamba County, they are so caring and compassionate, and they just want to help other people,” Edge said.

Students at Tremont Attendance Center say it’s very rewarding to win the competition again.

“Tremont is not a big school, and for us to rise above bigger schools, like we do and just go the distance is a really great feeling,” said student Jayce Wilson.

And even if they didn’t win, students say it wouldn’t matter. The food still goes to the same place.

“It is a great opportunity to help the community and those who actually need it,” Wilson said.

If you would like to participate in the food drive, you can drop off any donations at the MSU Itawamba Extension Service until December 20.